Historical Collections of the Topsfield Historical Society

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CHURCH OF ST. MARY, CHIPPING NORTON, OXFORDSHIRE
Where William Averill (1625 - 1691), of Topsfield was baptised.

THE

HISTORICAL

COLLECTIONS

OF THE

TOPSFIELD HISTORICAL SOCIETY

VOLUME XXVIII

1923

TOPSFIELD, MASS.
PUBLISHED BY THE SOCIETY

1925

GEORGE FRANCIS DOW

Editor

THE PERKINS PRESS
TOPSFIELD, MASS.

CONTENTS

CHURCH OF ST. MARY, CHIPPING NORTON, OXFORDSHIRE

Frontispiece

OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY, 1922 iv

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE SECRETARY FOR THE YEAR

ENDING DEC. 31, 1922 V

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TREASURER FOR THE YEAR

ENDING DEC. 31, 1922 vi

ANNUAL REPORT ON THE BUILDING FUND - - - - vii

THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY

BY GEORGE FRANCIS DOW 1

THE ENGLISH ANCESTRY OF WILLIAM AVERILL OF

IPSWICH, MASS. BY CLARA A. AVERY - 17

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD (1875-1876),

COPIED BY GEORGE FRANCIS DOW - - - - 24

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION BY REV.

JAMES H. FITTS 65

ESSEX COUNTY QUARTERLY COURT RECORDS RELATING
TO TOPSFIELD (1679-1681), ABSTRACTED BY GEORGE

FRANCIS DOW 131

SARAH BARO COLCHER, AN AFRICAN PRINCESS, WHO

LIVED IN TOPSFIELD 140

TOPSFIELD VITAL STATISTICS, 1922 141

CHRONOLOGY OF EVENTS, 1922 144

BUILDINGS CONSTRUCTED, 1922 144

OFFICERS

OF THE

TOPSFIELD HISTORICAL SOCIETY
1922

President

Charles Joel Peabody

Vice-President
Thomas Emerson Proctor

Secretary and Treasurer
George Francis Dow

CURATOR

Albert M. Dodge

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Charles Joel Peabody, ex-officio
Thomas Emerson Proctor, ex-officio
George Francis Dow, ex-officio
W. Pitman Gould
Isaac H. Sawyer
Leone R Welch
Arthur H. Wellman

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE SECRETARY

OF THE

TOPSFIELD HISTORICAL SOCIETY
FOR THE YEAR ENDING DEC. 31, 1922

The membership of the Society on December 31, 1922, was
227. Five new members have been added and two have died,
viz : Miss Ellen M. Dole of Salem, from whose estate the society
has received an early pine slant-top desk resting on low, turned
feet, a desirable specimen, well suited to help furnish the parlor
of the Capen Plouse. Miss S. Josephine Towne of Topsfield, was
the other member who died. She was a charter member and
lived to be over eighty-five years of age.

After living in the Capen House since it was restored and
acting as its custodian, a period of eight years, Mr. Sheahan
removed from town in the fall of this year and gave up the oc-
cupancy of the house. In the coming spring it is hoped to find
some suitable family to occupy the comfortable quarters on the
second floor so long enjoyed by Mr. Sheahan.

Another installment of one hundred dollars has been paid in
the Capen House note held by Mrs. Newhall.

But two meetings of the Society have been held during the
year — the annual meeting, at which the President read a paper
on "Capt. Thomas Perkins, the Topsfield farmer’s boy who be-
came a great merchant,” and a meeting held in September at
which Mr. Sheahan read selections from his forthcoming book
— ’'Wonder Tales” — all of which were written in the Capen
House.

The Capen House is in a good state of repair and is visited
frequently by those interested in early New England architec-
ture, some coming from a considerable distance.

Respectfully submitted,

George Francis Dow,

Secretary

(v)

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TREASURER

OF THE

TOPSFIELD HISTORICAL SOCIETY
FOR THE YEAR ENDING DEC. 31, 1922
RECEIPTS

Jan. 3, 1922 Balance cash on hand $15 22

Annual dues 68 50

Historical Collections sold 34 00

do. do. bindings 33 50

$151 22

PAYMENTS

Historical Collections, Vol. 26, binding
do. do. Vol. 26, bal. printing

Postals, printing and freight
Refreshments, September meeting

$69 82
47 41
9 77

1 44 128 44

Balance cash on hand

$22 78

Respectfully submitted
George Francis Dow

Treasurer

(Vi)

TREASURER’S REPORT ON THE BUILDING FUND

OF THE

TOPSFIELD HISTORICAL SOCIETY
FOR THE YEAR ENDING DEC. 31, 1922
RECEIPTS

Jan. 3, 1922 Balance cash on hand

Dividends, United Shoe Mach. Co. stock
Rent of Capen House (Mr. Sheahan)

PAYMENTS

On acct. collateral note
Interest on do. do.

Balance cash on hand

STATEMENT

On hand 45 sh. United Shoe Mach. Co. stock

market value $50 $2,250 00

Less collateral note to Mrs. Ada N. L. Newhall 1,200 00

Value of Fund $1,050 00

Parson Capen House and 11-5 acre land,

cost $2,100 00

Restoration and Furnishings 2,461 12

$56 45
90 00

100 00 $246 45

$100 00

75 00 175 00

$71 45

$4,561 12

Respectfully submitted
George Francis Dow,

Treasurer

(vii)

THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY

By George Francis Dow

Capt. Edward Johnson, the town clerk of Woburn, when com-
posing his Wonder Working Providence” in 1646, gives us our
earliest description of the river Agawam.* He writes of "A faire
and delightful river, whose first rise or spring begins about
twenty-five miles farther up the country, issuing forth a very
pleasant pond. But soon after it betakes its course through a
most hideous swamp of large extent, even for many miles, being
a great harbour for bears. After its coming forth this place, it
groweth larger by the income of many small rivers, and issues
forth in the sea, due east against the Island of Sholes, a great
place of fishing for our English nation.”

The earliest map that shows a settlement on the banks of the
river Agawam may be found in William Wood’s "New England’s
Prospect.” It was printed at London in 1634. Forty-three years
later Hubbard’s "History of New England” was printed and con-
tains a map, rudely cut in wood by some Colonial craftsman.
Unlike the common way of showing the cardinal points, the top
of the map represents the west, and the bottom represents the
east. The two principal rivers in Massachusetts Colony, the
Merrimack and the Connecticut, occupy the larger portion of
the engraved surface, but near the mouth of the Merrimack
river may be seen depicted the river Agawam with the town of
Ipswich at its mouth, and just above it is the spire showing the
location of the village of Topsfield.

That doughty navigator, Capt. John Smith, described his visit
to "Angoam,” as he termed it, as follows : "Here are many ris-
ing hills, and on their tops and descents are many cornfields and
delightful groues. On the east is an Isle, of two or three leagues
in length ; the one half, plaine marish grasse, fit for pasture, with
many faire high groues of mullberry trees, there is also Okes,
Pines, and other woods to make this place an excellent habita-
tion, being a good and safe harbor.”

It is interesting to note, as within the range of possibilities,
that this river Agawam might have received at the hands of the

*This account of the Ipswich river was written a number of years ago to be
given with lantern-slide illustrations.

(i)

2 THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY

intruding Englishman, the name of Plymouth, for Morton in his
"Memorial” relates that before the company on the Mayflower
had finally concluded to dwell near the Cape, some of them "urged
greatly the going to Agawam, or Angawam, a place twenty
leagues off to the northward, which they heard to be an excellent
harbour for ships, better ground and better fishing.” No doubt
a Destiny o’erruled the final decision, yet we of to-day may fancy
a more prosperous foundation, with fewer sickened hearts had
the final choice been Agawam.

The river Agawam — resort for fish of passage — as it was
named by the Indians, takes its source from the hillsides of Bur-
lington, Mass., a small town twenty-five miles from the sea as
the crow flies, but the careless windings of the fickle stream
nearly treble the distance. Rising on the northwest side of a
ridge of highlands that extends in almost unbroken line from the
Merrimac to the Blackstone, the stream endeavors to force its
way among the hills to the ocean, which it succeeds in doing at
Topsfield, where hills on either side are more than one hundred
feet in height, and again, at Wiilowdale, the scene is repeated.

The farmers of Burlington have named the small stream Maple
Meadow, which, when joined by Lubber Brook a short distance
above a bridge, together with two or three other small brooks,
becomes the river Agawam. From Burlington the brook flows
sluggishly through the meadows of Wilmington, a town named
in honor of Lord Wilmington, a member of the Privy Council.
It was popularly called "Hop Town” a hundred years ago, be-
cause of its extensive fields of hops, and it exhibits a monument
marking the site where grew the tree from which the Baldwin
apple originated. At Reading, Mill Street, with its suggestions
of the old town mill located at this point, crosses the river upon
a substantial bridge framed in the foliage of many trees, the lux-
uriant undergrowth trailing in the water and concealing the
banks of the stream. This point is as far up the river as it is
usually possible to paddle the canoe save during the period of
highest water in the early spring, for above here bridges are low
and the shallow water, or overhanging growth, bars a passage.
The small town of North Reading is soon reached, the river hav-
ing, for some distance, furnished the boundary line between
Reading and North Reading, and then, the boundary between
North Reading and Lynnfield, and Middleton, from Peabody and
Danvers. The Middleton Paper Mills are near where the towns
of North Reading, Lynnfield and Middleton join their boundaries.
Here Col. Francis Peabody of Salem erected a paper mill in 1832,
superseding a fulling mill of an early date, and supplied to the

THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY 3

trade book and writing paper of the highest quality. Will’s
Hill is on the left and was named for the last Indian inhabitant
who lived and died upon its summit, and whose squaw survived
until the incorporation of the town in 1728.

Not far from the river, and seemingly just under the hill, is
the quiet village of Middleton, and in the near distance may be
seen the Danvers Insane Hospital, on Hathome Hill ; in fact,
there are but few places in Essex County where that towering
mass of brick cannot be seen. From the deck of its central tower,
342 feet above the level of the sea, a fine panorama of rolling
landscape is unfolded.

At Howe’s Station, the Boston & Maine Railroad crosses the
river, and but a few yards below the highway also bridges the
stream, where the ancient Indian trail forded it years ago. In
early times this bridge was known to all as "the Indian Bridge.”
From the bridge the view looking down the river well illustrates
the graceful windings of the course of the stream. As the rail-
road station is but a short distance away, this is the point usually
chosen by the canoeist from which to begin his inland voyage.

After passing under the highway bridge near the Boxford
boundary line and threading its way through an alder-swamp,
an excellent hunting ground for woodcock and partridge, the
river glides into the open where it flows sluggishly between the
grassy banks of a hassocky meadow. At one point on the left
there is higher ground with an attractive landing place which
must have been well known to the Agawam tribe of Indians.
This level plain running back to the highway and beyond to the
heavy growth of fragrant white pines, has long yielded a rich
harvest of Indian implements. The spring plowing seldom fails
to bring to the surface a stone axe, a sinker or a miscellaneous
assortment of arrow heads. The old-fashioned house near by was
built by a grandson of Governor Endecott, who owned the Hebrew
appellation Zerubbabel, meaning "Prince of the House of David,”
a name not infrequently found on the early records. But this
scion of a worthy house and bearer of a scriptural name turned
out to be a sad profligate and fell in love with Rebeckah Eames
of Boxford, who was twenty-four years his senior. Perhaps she
bewitched him, for no longer ago than the previous year, in the
Salem witchcraft court, she had owned herself to be an instru-
ment of the Devil and accordingly had been sentenced, but es-
caped death at the jail delivery in July, 1693. Be that as it may,
the elders of the village church at Topsfield, where Endecott’s
children had been baptized, consulted long with the elders at
Salem and at length pronounced sentence of excommunication
against him, — a very unusual proceeding even in those days.

4 THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY

The level country in this vicinity must have been particularly
attractive to the Indians before the advent of the European. A
fine stone paint pot was found on this Endecott farm but a few
years ago, and a large stone mortar, used by the Indians to crush
their corn, and which is now in the Peabody Museum at Salem,
came from a spot not far up the river on the Middleton side. Fish
Brook, which bore this name in the earliest times and which may
have attracted the Indians to this location, enters the river not
far below, and on a sandy slope near its banks stone chippings
from two varieties of rock may yet be picked up by the handful.
One afternoon while hunting in this vicinity for cellar holes and
other evidences of antiquity, by merest chance I wandered into
a gravel pit, which the town had opened not many years before
in the side of a hillock that overlooks the brook, and at the high-
est point, as the gravel had been dug away, I found, some two
or three inches below the upper surface, a layer of blackened
earth with bits of charcoal, suggesting beacon fires and Indian
occupancy.

The next bridge across the river has been known for genera-
tions as "Rowley Bridge" and has given its name to the highway
leading toward Danvers. Here the sluggish water runs deep
and lies in wait for the unskilled swimmer, while near at hand
the beguiling shade of the walnut grove, with the returning
season, attracts the picnic party. As we drift down the stream,
the bridge above for a long distance mutters it complaint as each
passing team is driven over its loosely joined planking. When
over a mile below you may hear its distant thunder.

The country village of Topsfield is on the left and only a short
distance away, but so surrounded by hillsides that the white spire
and tree-fringed streets cannot be seen from the river bank.
The hill lying between was christened "Billingsgate" by the first
settlers. Why it should suggest the foul language of a London
fish market does not appear, save that its steep sides are unin-
viting to the loaded team and to the weary pedestrain. Where
a cluster of buildings may be seen on the southern slope near
the river, a hundred years ago lived "Devil Henry," whose sur-
name was Bradstreet. The countryside of the present day re-
members little else than his name and a distant reputation of
his evil temper. More than a century ago there was settled
over the village church a minister who came from Connecticut.
Asahael Huntington was his name ; to be perpetuated by a son
who for many years was a prominent member of the Essex
County bar. The community soon grew to love and respect the
parson from Connecticut, all save "Devil Henry" Bradstreet,

THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY 5

who e'er long sold all his hens, telling his few associates that he
would not endure the frequent outcries made by his fowls sug-
gesting that Parson Huntington it was who came from "Cut-cut-
cut-con-neck-t i-cut-t i-car-cut . ’ ’

Under overhanging trees the Wooden Bridge comes slowly
into view. It is the oldest bridge in the town and probably the
second bridge to span the river, the first one having been built
at Ipswich. About two hundred and fifty years ago, when Tops-
field became of sufficient size to be called a town, Walter Roper,
a carpenter, came up the river from Ipswich, as the records tell
us, and built ’'the great bridge across the river by Goodman
Townes." All that now remains of the Goodman’s house is a
memory. From the river bank may be seen a lone apple tree
standing in the broad field and closely indicating the site of the
house where lived William Towne, the father of Rebecca Nurse,
Mary Easty and Sarah Cloyce, whose names will be forever
linked with the story of the witchcraft delusion at Salem Village.
The monument in that family burying ground at Danvers, mark-
ing the spot where the body of Rebecca Nurse was brought up-
on the shoulders of her stalwart sons that dark night over two
centuries ago, is well known, but few know the story of her
gentle sister Mary, who was taken at midnight from her home
near this bridge at Topsfield, bound in chains and hurried to
Salem jail, ten miles away; and how, while in prison and under
sentence of death, she addressed a humble petition to Governor
Phips that has won for her the title, "the self-forgetfull.’’ She
asked not for her own life, but that other innocent blood might
not be shed ; and in after years, until the day of his death, on
the appointed day for fasting and prayer, one of her judges,
Samuel Sewall, would solemly stand in the Old South Church in
Boston and publicly acknowledge his error :

With a haunting sorrow that never slept,

As the circling year brought round the time
Of an error that left the sting of crime,

When he sat on the bench of the witchcraft courts
With the laws of Moses and "Hale’s Reports,”

And spake, in the name of both, the word
Which gave the witch’s neck to the cord.

The Stone Bridge, over which passes the Turnpike road be-
tween Newburyport and Boston, is without a doubt in its con-
struction and surroundings the most picturesque span of any
upon the river from its source to the sea.* There is nothing

*In 1922, the Massachusetts State Highway Commission caused this bridge to
be encased in cement so that its picturesque character has now been destroyed.

6 THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY

about it to show whether it stands in Old England or New Eng-
land, and for years it has borne witness that such a structure
can be at once rustic and monumental, an example for other
builders. Over this bridge runs the Turnpike, straight as an
arrow, from Newburyport to Chelsea Bridge. It was once a
famous thoroughfare in this part of the country, and of late, to
the motoring fraternity, it has renewed its more youthful pop-
ularity. Up hill and down hill it goes, and most of the hills are
in Topsfield. Near the crest of the steep ascent on the right yet
stands the old toll-house, and half way up the long hill str etch-
ing away in the distance formerly stood the old Topsfield Hotel,
a famous place for country gatherings, political and otherwise.
Here met the Essex Junto, in 1808, to "consider the alarming
and ruinous condition of public affairs,” a convention which ex-
President John Adams styled "the great Topsfield caucus,” and
which was denounced by Henry Clay on the floor of Congress.

Just one anecdote connected with the hill near the bridge.
Many tales were formerly told of a certain elderly man, who
shall be nameless, who owned a propensity for appropriating the
property of others. One evening he came down this hill with
his ox-cart and, just below the bridge, saw a large wheel tire ly-
ing in the road just ahead of him. After looking about to see
that he was not observed, he put the tire on his load, carefully
covering it over, and when home was reached, hid the tire under
the barn. But in the morning when he began to unload his cart
he found that the off-wheel was minus its tire. He had stolen
his own property. The story soon became current and was re-
lated with much gusto by the ancients of the village when gath-
ered about the grocery salamander.

During the summer months when the water runs low between
the grassy banks, the loiterer leaning over the railing can hardly
conceive of the large body of icy water that rushes through the
arch of stone and flows in wide expanse across the meadows and
fields. The watershed of the river is of considerable extent and
even in June continued rains will sometimes swell the river’s flood
to an extraordinary extent. Seldom does the month of March
fail to bring with it a freshet, sometimes causing all the bridges,
save the Stone Bridge, to become impassable and covering deep
with flowing water the highways running along the lowlands near
the river.

Years ago the village parson owned a few acres of land lying
between the river bank and the long hillside below the Stone
Bridge, and when a "root of bitterness” grew up between the
pastor and his congregation and he removed to another charge

THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY 7

at Hartland, Vt., the name of the far-away parish was applied to
the parson’s meadow. Long years ago the old gentleman went
(let us hope) where church contentions are a thing unknown,
but the name "Hartlands” still clings to the locality.

There are many peculiar names familiarly applied to various
localities about Topsfield — Bonney’s Feather Bed, The Colleges,
Blind Hole, Hardscrabble, The Point of Ridge, Coleraine, and
many others. Firetown is but a short distance away, on the
back road to Ipswich, and sometimes one hears of the 'Topsfield
Navy Yard,” or the "Boxford Lighthouse.” One of these local-
ities is Porker Bridge, which crosses the nameless brook that
helps to swell the river’s flood, just below "the Hartlands.”
Whence came the name I have been unable to learn, unless per-
chance "Porker” bridge, which seems reasonable, for ’twas here
that good Parson Capen, who flourished in witchcraft times, had
one of his encounters with the Devil, who had appeared in the
shape of a monstrous hog, taking his station at night in the very
center of the narrow bridge, and those who had occasion to cross
it, on horseback or on foot, either turned back in fright as he
encountered them, bristling and snarling, or rushed by, if their
occasion demanded it, in a state of extraordinary trepidation.
At length, Parson Capen, riding up to the bridge one evening,
saw the specter in his usual position. Nothing daunted, in vir-
tue of his holy office, the good man thus accosted him : "You that
were once an angel of light, ain’t you ashamed to appear in the
shape of a dirty swine?” This expostulation was too much for
the foul fiend, who at once jumped over the railing and was
seen no more. The Parson lived in a mansion house, with over-
hanging second story, which still faces the old training field,
and here he had a famous encounter with his Satanic Majesty. I
give you the tale as it has been handed down the generations by
veracious worshippers in the white meeting-house on the village
green.

It was during the dark days of the witchcraft period. Goody
Wildes had been hurried away to her death and the neighbors
lived in daily dread of the accusing spirit that hovered over them.
All went about their accustomed tasks, but guarded well their
idle tongues. The sun rose bright and clear that Sabbath day,
and when good Parson Capen climbed the narrow stairs leading
to his pulpit few benches in the rude meeting-house were un-
occupied. The psalm had been lined and the preacher had fin-
ished his lengthy prayer. The sermon had reached its twenty-
fourthly, and Tithingman Redington was just brushing Good-
wife Andrew’s ruddy cheek with the hare’s tail fastened at the

8 THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY

end of his long staff, when suddenly the man of God stopped his
exhortation, his lean hand raised in air, his eyes fixedly looking
over the heads of his awestruck flock. Only for an instant did
he gaze, then quickly making his way among the benches to the
narrow door, he hurried by the wall of the fort and along the
winding road toward his home nearly half a mile away.

The calm of summer was in the air ; but the droning bees and
nodding flowers were not for the Parson. Along he hurried,
and at a distance followed by twos and threes, his wondering
congregation. Alas ! his premonition of evil was all too true.
Satan, whose fell power had sore darkened the neighborhood of
late, stood over a trembling serving maid, who, even at that
moment, was about to obey his behest and sign her soul away
into his fiendish keeping. The girl had sinned. She had absent-
ed herself from the meeting-house and sat slyly reading a for-
bidden book when, to her horror, Satan burst in upon her, with
gleeful laughter and smoky breath, to claim her allegiance. But
with the coming of the Parson the scene changed. Seizing a
large measure of flaxseed, near at hand, he scattered the kernals
far and wide over the kitchen floor. "If ye pick them up kernal
by kernal e’er I read backwards what the girl hath read, ye may
have her and thus only,” said the Parson, who without a pause
began his task, while the Devil in turn sprang after the slippery
mites. It was a battle royal ; the prize, a human soul. The girl,
huddled in a corner, moaned in terror, while outside the windows
stood the braver souls of the Parson’s congregation. The Evil
One seemed endowed with more than supernatural agility ; but
his was a loosing race, for the Parson finished his task with a
triumphant shout while yet many seeds lay scattered about the
floor. With a sardonic glance at the girl, who now was shaken
with sobs, the Devil, in a flash, melted out of sight. How he
went none could say with certainty, but a rat hole near where
he had lately stood, seemed to furnish the solution, and so, for
many generations, it has been preserved with pious reverence,
an object of awe and wonderment to all beholders, who have
carefully handed down the tale to the present day.

As the years slipped by good Parson Capen continued to shield
his folk from evil influences, and, having served-his alloted span,
died and was laid to rest on the exact spot where for many years
he had expounded the Word. A new meeting-house had been
built meanwhile, and located on the Common where the white
spire yet points upward ; but where the older building had stood,
adjoining the stone fort, the townsfolk erected a monument to
the memory of the good man, and this epitaph was ordered
carved upon the stone :

THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY 9

Dear Mr. Capen, that revered man
Who did the faith of Christ maintain,

A learned man and godly too,

None will deny this who him knew.

Below the rapids in the river, a troublesome place for the
canoeist during a dry time, is Towne’s Bridge at the end of a low
causeway, skirted by over-hanging willows. The old folk call
it "the casey” just as did their forefathers years ago. The bridge
formerly was a loosely jointed structure that grumbled and
shuddered with each passing team, but recently it has been re-
placed by a modern cement construction. A few yards below, the
iron railroad bridge makes its span and just beyond is a favorite
swimming-hole.

Now the river bows and bends in many a capricious detour
through the meadows which in early springtime are converted
into a broad, smooth lake, but later present a profusion of vivid
coloring from the multitude and variety of wild flowers. Here,
we are in a good fishing neighborhood. Someone has said that
the habit of going a-fishing always modifies the character;
whether for good or ill I may not say at this time. It certainly
encourages a closer acquaintance with old Dame Nature, but
not infrequently produces a sad state of indolency. However,
if we stop to wet our fishing lines and spend an hour or two cast-
ing for pickerel, dinner will possess an unexpected zest. The
big fellows lie in wait just at the edge of the lily pads and a live-
ly shiner, well hooked, is sure to be seized upon by a pickerel,
perch or pout. A summer or two ago I saw a three-and-a-half-
pound pickerel that came from a cove near here.

The long green stretch of Wenham swamp, with its almost
impenetrable tangle of "Devil’s yarn,” begins at the edge of the
meadow. The low land occupies a wide extent at this point and
easily suggests the application to the locality of the name adopt-
ed by the early settlers — New Meadows. From the canoe it
seems to be less than a mile to the point on the opposite side of
the meadow where the river disappears among the trees. But
vain are all estimates. It is a three-mile paddle to the grove of
fragrant pines. Vineyard Hill is below at the right, and is skirt-
ed by the highway leading to Asbury Grove Camp Ground.

Lamson’s Bridge is around the next turn. It was built in 1730
by Jonathan Lamson, who lived in the easterly end of the white
farm-house that stands but a short distance from the river bank.
Until recently the Lamson family occupied the house, and tilled
the acres purchased by their ancestor two hundred and fifty
years ago. At the time that the first cart bridge was built, the

10 THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY

land on either side of the river at this point was within the bounds
of Ipswich, but after a time the neighbors either fancied the elo-
quence of the Topsfield parson or, possibly, the smaller tax levy
of the inland town, and after petitions and counter-petitions,
the Great and General Court at length granted their plea for an-
nexation.

Off at the left is Winthrop’s Hill, named for John Winthrop the
younger, who, with twelve others, came to the mouth of the
Agawam in 1633 and founded the settlement afterward known
as Ipswich. Masconomet, the Sagamore of the Agawam tribe,
sold the land on either side of the river to Winthrop for £20, and
the original indenture, with the redman’s mark, in the form of
a letter S, is still preserved and is in the possession of the Essex
Institute at Salem. It reads in part as follows :

"I Musconominet, Sagamore of Agawam, doe by theise prsents
acknowledge to have Received of Mr. John Winthrop the some
of Twenty poundes, in ful satisfacon of all the Right, property
and Cleame, I have or ought to have, unto all the land lying and
being in the Bay of Agawam, alls Ipswich, being soe called now
by the English, as well alsuch land as I formerly reserved unto
my owne use at Chibocco as alsoe all other lands belonging unto
me in those parts, Mr. Dummers farme excepted only. And I
herby relinquish all the Right and Interest I have unto all the
Havens, Rivers, Creekes, Islands, huntings and fishings, with all
the woodes, swamps, timber,” etc. etc. "Witnesse my hand this
28 June 1638

MUSKONOMINET
his S marke.”

Masconomet sacrificed the hunting grounds of his tribe for a
mere pittance and at the last of his life became dependent upon
the colonists. He was buried in 1658 on Sagamore Hill in Ham-
ilton, which is easily recognized by its solitary tree-top outlined
against the sky. His tribe became extinct about 1730, much to
the relief of the town treasury, I fancy. John Winthrop lived at
Ipswich for a few years and then, having obtained a charter, re-
moved to the Connecticut River, where he was Governor of the
Colony for eighteen years or until he died.

Below the bridge the current moves slowly beneath overhang-
ing trees, with here and there a tangle of grapevines inviting a
September excursion. The slanting rays of the sun striking up-
on the smooth surface makes a perfect mirror of the stream.
Indeed, the eye can scarce distinguish where the real ends and
the shadow begins, for the trees and bushes grow both up and

THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY 11

down, and the fleecy clouded sky is both high above and far be-
low. Every turn in the river opens to view beautiful and ever-
changing vistas. The Hamilton Commons are on the right and
at the left enters Gravelly Brook, cool and sparkling, fed by
many a sandy spring. The dam across the river at Willowdale
is soon reached and just above it is the canal leading to the site
of the old mill. It is well worth the while to make a journey to
the dam at flood time in the spring, and to stand upon the abut-
ments and watch the rush of water and the pitch and crash heard
above the roar as the great cakes of ice plunge into the turmoil
below. In midsummer the scene changes, and the stream runs
so low that the entire length of the stone work is exposed to the
blistering heat of the sun. Then may be caught below the dam
many a fine string of perch and kivers, and at dusk it is a fam-
ous place for horn-pout and eels. A generation ago the French
Canadian had not discovered this mill and the conditions were
similar to those existing in Lowell and Lawrence in the early
times. The "super,” as he was called, came from a hill town in
York County, Maine, and brought with him a following of the
"Down Easter” type, which was supplemented by a few English-
men and the natives of the soil. Together they lived and toiled
with long hours of labor and few pleasures. A trip to the town
of Ipswich, three and one-half miles away, served to break the
monotony at infrequent intervals, and the Sunday evening prayer
meeting in the district schoolhouse, with Samuel McKenzie’s
brass clarionet to lead the singing, was a mild form of dissipation
in which the neighborhood very generally indulged.

The two hills beside the river are respectively known as Big
and Little Turner ; the first, with its single row of willows crown-
ing the ridge, and the other, with its solitary tree, defying the
easterly storms, a landmark picked up far at sea by the passing
sailor. Just below the hill, where not long ago the blueberry
bushes grew in rank profusion, a v/ealthy owner has erected a
palace. Where jolly berry pickers formerly wandered at will, a
miniature lake now mirrors the image of an English baronial
hall, and the pine tree that held the nest of the crow now pays
tribute to the skill of the landscape gardener.

From this point the river flows along between wooded banks
and away from the highways and farmhouses. Here and there
distant views are obtained of splendid country homes of Boston
and New York families. In a short time the current brings us
to where the "backside of Hamilton” road crosses the river, on
a three-arched bridge of stone at Norwood’s Mills where, so long
as the river water retained the chill of winter, fishes’ sounds

12 THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY

were formerly converted into isinglass, used to purify the lager
brewed by our German- American fellow-citizens. Below the
dam is a rocky gorge with a short carry for the canoeist.

Now the forest growth begins at the river’s bank and frequent-
ly is quite dense. Here, the rush of water has loosened the earth
from about the roots of the trees, exposing a fantastic interlac-
ing like some monster carving from the Orient. There, a moss-
covered ledge juts boldly into the stream, forming a tiny harbor.
Soon the railroad bridge is passed and the winding river leads
us to the landing place near the great dam of the hosiery mill
and we are in old Ipswich town where nearly all of the houses
are old and most of the names of localities romantic. In

"Old Ipswich town in the East Countree,

Whence on the tide, you can float down
Through the long salt grass to the wailing sea,

And lie all day on the glassy beach,

And learn the lessons the green waves teach,

Till at sunset, from surf and seaweed brown,

You are pulling back to Ipswich town.”

But a step from the landing passes the ancient King’s high-
way along which marched in 1775, Benedict Arnold’s army on
its way to Quebec through the tangle of Maine forests. In 1789,
came General Washington while on his eastern tour. In 1824,
General Lafayette rode by and at the Choate Bridge, but a short
distance down the winding road, passed under a triumphal arch
and was received by the military and populace with great en-
thusiasm. No doubt Peter Rugg drove swiftly along this high-
way pursued by the inevitable thunderstorm. Here, too, rum-
bled the famous coaches of the great Eastern Stage Company,
bound for Portland and the District of Maine.

The Choate Bridge, with its low Norman arches, is a famous
old structure, built in 1764 under the direction of Col. John
Choate, who commanded a regiment at Louisburg and was a
member of the Provincial Government for thirty-five years. The
bridge was built at the expense of the County of Essex and is
one of the oldest arch bridges in the country. It stands to-day
as firmly as it did that October morning when the supporting
timbers were knocked away from below. The stone used in its
construction was taken from the stone walls and rocky pastures
near at hand and shows no finish at the joints. Of c<purse a
careful selection was made of the more suitable for forming the
arches, but it is really wonderful that with this material such
graceful lines could be built upon with perfect accuracy, the

THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY 13

more so, when we consider that the builder probably never had
seen an arch of stone in his life.

But a step from the bridge stands what was formerly the old
"Ross Tavern,” built in 1735, and on the steep bank on the opposite
side of the river is a large building, with mansard roof, where
Mary Lyon and Zilpah P. Grant conducted the Ipswich Female
Seminary, a famous old-time school where Andover Theologi-
cal students were wont to find helpmates and sharers of their
joys and uncertainties.

The First Meeting House stands upon a level spot among the
ledges on Meeting-house Green. It was here that Rev. George
Whitefield preached to an audience numbering thousands and
with such power that Satan discomfited rushed up the stairs
leading to the steeple, leaped to the ground and for a time aban-
doned his work in the vicinity. The print of his cloven foot
may yet be seen on the ledge at the left of the entrance to the
meeting-house.

"And still on each Sunday the Parson prays
To be kept from the Devil and all his ways,

And the sexton labors to scare him as well,

By ringing and swinging the Ipswich bell.”

And an Ipswich bell has also rung a curfew since 1656, when
the town first so ordered.

In the rear of the meeting-house formerly stood the stocks and
the whipping-post and hard by was the jail where were confined
the Quaker and witchcraft victims. Giles Corey made his last
will and testament while in this prison. It is a short walk to
Town Hill and the old burying ground, where on the right-hand
side of the main path may be found a stone bearing the date of
1647. From the crest of the hill a magnificient prospect of hill-
top and ocean shore is suddenly unfolded. The river, burnished
silver bright, winds in and out seeking its narrow passage into
the Bay. Plum Island, the Isle of Shoals, the blue peak of old
Agamenticus and the faint outlines of distant New Hampshire
mountains, and inland, a rolling succession of hills, circling the
line of horizon, Annisquam and Cape Ann gracefully sweeping
to the southeast, and just beneath, the broad salt marshes dotted
with hay-cocks. The long hill at the right of the river is Castle
Hill. At the extreme left may be seen Little Neck, with summer
cottages dotting the steep incline, while between these guardians
of the river's flow may be seen the Bay, stretching away as far
as the eye can reach. A white sail is coming into the river and
near the Neck we may imagine the canoes and pleasure boats
of many a happy party.

14 THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY

But we must return to our river, passing down High Street,
more popularly known as Pudding Street, from the fact or tradi-
tion that some mischievous boys once stole a pudding from the
oven in which it was baking and kicked it up and down the
street. Here, in former times, lived the Colonial Governors,
Thomas Dudley and Simon Bradstreet, and here Anne Bradstreet,
"the Tenth Muse lately sprung up in America,” wrote many of
her best poems, "with great variety of Wit and Learning, full of
delight.” At the foot of the street is anchored a flotilla of fisher-
men’s dories. Ship-yard Lane, with two clammer’s houses at its
foot, is to be seen rising and disappearing in the background.
Town Hill is at the extreme right. This is tidewater, and a
short distance down the stream is the coal wharf where the di-
minutive river steamer receives passengers for the delightful
sail down the river to the Bluffs and then along Plum Island
River to Oldtown in Newbury, by many a marshy bank and reedy
shoal where :

"The host of hay-cocks seem to float
With doubles in the water,”

while the windy sand dunes of Plum Island follow our winding
way the entire distance.

Near the wharf is the house in which lived Harry Main, pirate,
smuggler and wrecker, who followed the wicked trade of build-
ing fires on the sands in order to decoy vessels among the break-
ers. For these crimes, at his death, he was doomed to be chained
to the bar which extends across the mouth of the river, there
forever to coil a cable of sand. When an easterly storm rises
the cable will break and his yells of baffled rage can be heard for
miles around. Old people living on Plum Island, from which the
bar extends, used to say that Harry Main’s ghost troubled them
by wandering about the sand hills on stormy nights, so that they
were afraid to venture out of doors after dark.

The oldest legend in Ipswich is associated with Heartbreak
Hill and accounts for its name. The hill is on our right, as we
float down the river on the last stage of our journey. The name
was familiarly applied by the earliest settlers ; in fact, it appears
upon the records of the town as early as 1638 and is, without
doubt, as old as the settlement. In brief, the legend relates the
romantic story of an Indian girl who fell in love with a white
sailor from one of the fishing-vessels that frequented the coast
in those early times, and upon his sailing across the sea she used
to climb this hill and pass her days watching for his return.
But the months and years went by without bringing tidings from

THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY 15

him, and the deserted one pined away and at last died of a
broken heart.

Through the broad levels of marshland the river loiters quiet-
ly down to the sea. The tide brings in a few clammer’s boats,
but seldom anything larger. In Revolutionary times fifty coast-
ers and fishermen were registered at Ipswich ; to-day, a small
schooner comes floating up the river laden with coal, or a sloop
brings stone for building purposes. The commerce of the Aga-
wam vanished on the same tide that bore away the pride of other
ports in Essex County.

Before leaving the town we must ask some venerable citizen
to relate the picturesque story of the great Ipswich fright of
April 21, 1775 ; for it is said that the appearance in the lower
river of two men-of-war tenders, full of British soldiers, led to
that remarkable scene of indescribable terror and confusion,
affecting the whole countryside and reaching as far as Exeter,
N. H. The town was deserted. Large numbers fled from the
scene, and crossing the Merrimac, spent the night in the desert-
ed houses of Salisbury whose inhabitants, stricken by the same
strange terror, had fled to New Hampshire to take up their lodg-
ings in dwellings also abandoned by their owners. Whittier has
pictured all the terrors and absurdities of the Ipswich fright —
the man who got his family into a boat to go to Ram Island for
safety and, imagining that he was pursued by the enemy through
the dusk of evening, told his wife to throw the crying child over-
board "or we shall all be discovered and killed the poor woman
who ran three or four miles up the river and then discovered to
her horror that she had brought off the cat instead of the baby ;
these and many other tales have been preserved by the Quaker
poet. He relates that at midnight a horseman, clad only in shirt
and breeches, dashed up to his grandfather’s door at Haverhill,
twenty miles up the Merrimac, and shouted, "Turn out! Get a
musket ! Turn out ! The regulars are landing on Plum Island !”
"I’m glad of it,” responded the old gentleman from his chamber
window, "I wish they were all there and obliged to stay there.”
When we recall that Plum Island is little more than a naked
ridge of sand, the benevolence of this wish can readily be ap-
preciated.

And now, with one last glimpse of the spires of old Ipswich
town, we float past a steep bank and then begin to follow the
tortuous channel of the river as it flows through the salt marshes
down to the sea. The broad level stretch of thatch grass is in-
terrupted here and there by little wooded islands of upland and
frequently the muddy bank, on either side of the river, is broken

16 THE RIVER AGAWAM, AN ESSEX COUNTY WATERWAY

by the flow of an intersecting creek, or ''crick,” as the native
pronounces it. Argilla and Labor-in- Vain are on our right and
Jeffries Neck is at the left. Here, the Tarrant ines from the east-
ward battled with the Agawams as late as August, 1631, and in
shell heaps not far away evidences of cannibal feasts have been
found ; parts of human bones, together with the bones of bears,
moose, fish and birds.

In early times the hills on either side were heavily wooded ;
now, scarcely a shrub breaks the monotony. Little Neck, with
its colony of summer cottages, is at the mouth of the river and
on the opposite side is Castle Hill, with the hard, sandy beach
sweeping in graceful curve at its base, and just beyond and ris-
ing from the midst of the white sand dunes is the Ipswich light-
house and nearby is the cottage where lives in lonely seclusion
the keeper and his family. The lighthouse was built in 1837 and
is equipped with a white flashlight. The range light marking
the course of the channel across the bar may be seen in the dis-
tance near the shore. For over forty years Capt. Benjamin
Ellsworth was the faithful keeper of the light and when he died
in 1902, at the advanced age of eighty-nine years, he was the
oldest keeper in the Lighthouse Service. Beautiful effects are
produced by the wind as it sweeps over this wide stretch of fine
loose sand. It piles it into hillocks, through which it soon cuts
deep ravines. Although the wiry beach grass strives to preserve
a permanent outline, yet the surface is constantly changing.

On the Essex River side of the beach, possibly an eighth of a
mile from the lighthouse, is the once fertile Lakeman farm. A
few years ago the sand, blown from the eastward, had nearly
covered the apple orchard in the rear of the house and in reality,
one could walk among the branches of the trees ; but more re-
cently, by some strange caprice or unnatural law, the sand has
been blown away, clearing the surface nearly to the original
soil. Near at hand is the smooth, hard beach on which the
ocean beats with measured roar. Off from the shore the white
lines of surf pound upon the bar, and beyond, — Plum Island
stands watch and ward guarding the coast from Agawam to
Merrimac; and here the river meets the bay, — the Bay of
Agawam.

THE ENGLISH ANCESTRY OF WILLIAM AVERILL
OF IPSWICH, MASS.

By Clara A. Avery

At the time my genealogy of the "Averell- Aver ill- Avery Fam-
ily’’ was published in 1914,* the English origin of William Averill
of Ipswich, Mass, was unknown. It had been stated that he
emigrated from Broadway, Worcestershire, but the recent dis-
covery of the record of his marriage at Chipping Norton, Oxford-
shire, at last establishes with certainty the place of his English
home. The marriage of William Averell and Abigail Hinton
took place Nov. 26, 1618 at the Parish Church of St. Mary, Chip-
ping Norton, and there also, six of his children were baptised.
In 1634, William Averell was Bailiff of Chipping Norton, a posi-
tion of some importance at that time, which was shortly before
his migration to America.

There were not only many Averells, or "Averys,” in Oxford-
shire at this time, but the adjoining county of Worcestershire
had at Broadway, many Averells or Averills who were also called
"Avery.” That line has traditions (?) of a William Averill, 1505,
and other Averills in 1545 and 1566, preceding the earliest date
of record in our now established line, which is 1577. These may
prove a clue for further research.

The church records and wills relating to this ancestral line of
Averells is here printed and followed by a genealogical arrange-
ment of the line.

Averell ( Averie ) Wills and Administrations in the Consistory
and Archdeaconry Courts of Oxfordshire.

Averell (Averie) John, Chipping Norton, A. 10 Mar. 1577.-— Ser. I ;
Vol. 8, p. 524.

Averell (Averie) Richard, Chipping Norton, A. 16 May 1584.—
Ser. I; Vol. 10, p. 193.

Averell (Averie) James, Chipping Norton, C. 12 April 1602. — Ser.
I; Vol. 14, p. 191.

*Seealso: "William Averill of Ipswich and some of his Descendants,” — Tops-
field Historical Collections, Vol. XVII, p. 57.

(17)

18

THE ENGLISH ANCESTRY OF WILLIAM AVERILL

Averell (Averie) Edward, Chipping Norton, C. 25 Sept. 1617. —
Ser. II; Vol. 2, p. 371.

Averell (Averie) Judith, wid. Chipping Norton, C. 20 Feb. 1618. —
Ser. II; Vol. 2, p. 417.

Averell (Averie) Phillip, bach. Chipping Norton, C. W. 1627.—
Inv. 15 Dec. 1627.

Averell (Averie) Phillip, Chipping Norton, 19 Jan. 1627. A.B.
A.156— Inv. 7 Oct. 1628.

Averell (Averie) Phillip, Chipping Norton, cordwayner, 16 Apr.
1629, A.B.A. p. 166.

Averell (Averie) Thomas, Chipping Norton, A. W. Inv. 5 Aug.
1639.— Ser. II, Vol. 8, p. 269.

[No further entries after 1639]

Extracts of the name Avery or Averell from the Chipping Nor-
ton (Oxon) Registers; Parish Church of St. Mary.

Baptisms

1619, Oct. 17, Abigail Averell, dau. of William Averell
1621, Oct. 14, Mary Averell, dau. of William Averell
1623, Sept. 28, Hannah Averell, dau. of William Averell
1625, June 26, William Averill, son of William Avoril
1630, Jan. 7, Thomas Averill, son of William Averill
1632, (-?) 11, John, the son of William & Abigail Avoroll

Marriages

1602, May 6, Kellam Averye & Ales Prettie
1618, Nov. 26, William Averell & Abigail Hynton.

1618, Dec. 10, Edith Averill

Visitations of Oxford, 1634. Harleian Soc’y, Vol. 5.

Among the Bailiffs of Chipping Norton is given the name of
William Averell, 1634.

Chipping Norton Free Grammar School.

By deed-poll in Latin dated 4 Nov. 1572, William Averell, for a
certain sum of money paid to him by the whole of the inhabitants
of Chipping Norton, gave, enfeoffed and confirmed to William
Hunt and others, a messuage and garden in Chipping Norton
bounded by Church-street on the north and by the premisses of
Anthony Ashfield on the east, to hold to them and their heirs to
the uses specified by the schedule ; i. e. "'such as the feoffees and
their heirs by the consent of the most part of the substantial and

THE ENGLISH ANCESTRY OF WILLIAM AVERILL

19

honest men of Chipping Norton should think fit and determine.”

By deed-poll of 4 June 1607, William Hunt and other conveyed
this same messuage and garden to the Bailiffs and Burgesses of
Chipping Norton (part of the messuage is described as being
used as the free-school of Chipping Norton.)

By an indenture of 3 Mar. 1589-1590 made between William
Averell of the one part and Edward Hutchins and nineteen other
inhabitants of Chipping Norton of the other part, — the said Will-
iam Averell in consideration of a certain sum and that the rents
and profits of the premises be used for the maintenance of a
schoolmaster to instruct the children and scholars of all the in-
habitants of the town of Chipping Norton, freely, without paying
anything therefore, conveyed to Edmund Hutchins, etc. all that
messuage or tenement and garden situate in the Church-street
of Chipping Norton, which some time belonged to the late dis-
solved Chantry of St. John the Baptist and were purchased by
the said William, of Anthony Ashfield.

These premises abutted on those purchased by the deed of
Nov. 1572 (above).

The premises at present [1825] consist of one large building in
a part of which the school is held ; the rest affords a residence
for the master who has also the benefit of the garden compris-
ing about half an acre: —

Charity Commissioners Report, printed by order of the House of Commons, 26
May 1825.

Abstract of the Will of John Averie of Chipping Norton , co.
Oxford, dated 25 April 1577.

to be buried in the church of Chipping Norton. To the church Xs.

To the poor of the town XXs.

to son Walter Avery e (household utensils etc.)

to John Trevis a feather bed etc.

to Mathew Trevis Xiijs iiijd

William Trevis, Mathewe Trevis’ son Xijd and all his children
Xijd a piece.

to every one of John Trevis’ children Xijd a piece
to William Trevis Xjs Xijd

To Philip Avery, Richard Averye and Edward Avery my brother
William’s sons XXs a piece
to Katherine Newman XXs
to my brother William Averie Vjs
to my sister Annes Crosley 40s
to Katherine Trevace my wife’s black fryes (?)

20

THE ENGLISH ANCESTRY OF WILLIAM AVERILL

Residue to George Averye my son (executor)

Overseers : Michael Chad well, Edward Walford, William Avery,
& Thomas Newman & William Trevis
Witnesses : Michael Chadwell, Edward Walford & Thomas New-
man.

Proved 10 March 1577-8

Archd. Oxford, Series I; Vol. 8, f. 514.

Abstract of the Will of Richard Aver ell of Chipping Norton, co.
Oxford, dated 28 February 26 Eliz. (1583.)

to be buried in the church yard of Chipping Norton,
my goods to my wife to bring up my children.

Wife, executrix.

Witnesses : John Lancaster, clerk. John Lewes & ors.

Proved 15 May 1584 by executrix, and commission issued to
John Shaw.

Archd. Oxford, Series I, Vol. 10, f. 193.

Abstract of the Will of Edward Averie of Chipping Norton, co.
Oxford, dated 28 April 161 7.

In the name of God, Amen, the eight and twentith day of Aprill
1617. I Edward Averie of Chippingnorton in the Countie of
Oxon weake in bodie but stronge in minde and of good and
p(er)fect memorie thankes be to god doe — make this my last will
and testament — I doe willinglie and with a free hart render and
give againe into the handes of my Lord god and creator my
spiritt w(hi)ch he of his fatherlie goodnesse gave unto me mak-
ing me a lyvinge and reasonable creature nothinge doubtinge
but that for his infinite mercies sett forth in the p(re)cious bloude
of his derely beloved sonne — our onlie saviour and redeemer he
will receave my soule into his glorie and place it in the companie
of the heavenlie Angells and blessed Saints — I give to John
Averie my sonne one platter, to Willia(m) Averie my sonne one
platter. To Thomas my sonne one platter. To Samuell my sonne
one platter, to Edward my sonne one platter. And to Margaret
my daughter one platter. All the rest of my goods & chattels
moveables and unmoveables my dettes paid, my funerall dis-
charged and my legacies herein bequeathed satisfied I give to
Judith my wyffe whome I make my executor and I appoint my
lovinge brothers-in-lawe Richard Berrie and Thomas Hiat my
overseers.

Witnesses : Richard Berrie, Thomas Hiat, Richard Heidon.

Proved XXV September 1617.

Consistory of Oxford, Series II, Vol. II, f. 371-2.

THE ENGLISH ANCESTRY OF WILLIAM AVERILL

21

Abstract of the Will of Judith Aver ell of Chipping Norton, co.
Oxford, widow, dated 20 October 1618.

to be buried in the churchyard of Chipping Norton
to my eldest (son) John Averell £15
to Thomas Averell my son £15
to Samuel Averell my son £10

Which sums of money I appoint my son Edward Averell to pay
to them their portions and for consideration hereof I do give
him my house with appurtenances that John Coxe late dwelt in
to him his - heirs and assigns for ever, their portions to be paid
within a year if my son be then 20 years of age or else when
my son Edward is XX if I be not then alive. I give my son John
more "the bedsteed w(hi)ch is in the house — w(i)th a Flocke
bed and a Flock boulster, a fether boulster & paire of hempen
sheets, a cov(er)let, a litle brasse potte, a posnet of potte brasse,
a platter, and a pottenger.” I give to Thomas my son "more a
platter, a pottenger, two silver spoones, a litle kettel & a posnet”
I give more to Samuel my son "the bedsteed in the shope cham-
ber and the second best bee bedsteed standinge in the chamber
over the p(ar)lour and the worst fether bed, a fether boulster, a
flocke boulster, the best cov(er)let, two paire of sheetes, my sec-
ond best brasse potte, my second best kettle, a posnet of pott
brasse 2 silv(er) spoones 2 platters the table board I bought of
Will(ia)m Higgons, a little kettle, three of the biggest coffers in
the chamber ov(er) the p(ar)lor, a pewter candle sticke, thelicor
panne that his father used, three table napkines 2 joined stooles
the best cubboarde in the hall.” To Edward my son "two bed-
steeds in the chamber ov(er) the p(ar)lor, the best and third chest
in the p(ar)lor and the coffer that was his father(s), the best
Flockbed, a Flock bolster, a fether bolster, 2 paire of sheets, the
second best coverlet, the third brasse pot, the thirde brass kettell,
a posnet of potte brasse, a litle ketle and a litle candle stick, 2
platters, 2 silver spoones, the table board in the shoppe chamber,
the brasse panne that was Thomas Carrecks, 3 table napkins, 2
joine stooles, the other cubboard in the hall.”
to Margaret my daughter "my greene say Curteins w(i)th the
frindge that belongeth to them, the vessell that wee call the Cor-
sell, a gallon kettle and one of the best silver spoones and the
ware that I leave unfould, my best gowne, my best peticoate, my
best ap(er)ne, my best kercheffe, my best smocke, my second
best gowne”

to Robert Berry my sisters son Vs.
to Thomas Berry his brother Vs.

22

THE ENGLISH ANCESTRY OF WILLIAM AVERILL

to Sara their sisterXs, and "more to Thomas a cracked silver spoon.”
to Alee Russell "a platter and a brason candlesticke.
to my sister Crosbee "a gowne, a petticoate” and to every one
of her children Xijd

to my brother Phillippe Averell my husbands best doublet,
to the poor of the town Xs.

The residue of my goods to my son William whom I make
executor.

ThomasHiatt,RichardBerryeoverseer&give them iijs iiijd a piece.
Samuel my son and Edward my son shall have 8 quarters of
malt that is at Wm. Slatters to be divided equally,
to Samuel my son his fathers best cloak and to Edd. his other
coat or jacket.

I give to each of them a "Dowghe Kever”
to Edward Averell my son a "Hobbert”

Judeth Averell [her mark.]

Witnesses: Richard Berry, Thomas Hiat, Leidon John Timson.

Proved 20 February 1618.

Consistory of Oxford, Series II, Vol. n, p. 417

Abstract of the Will of James Averell of Chipping Norton, co.
Oxford, shoemaker, dated 24 November 1601.

my father Thomas Averell shall have the use of my goods in
his possession paying all my debts &c.

father, Thomas (executor) shall bestow the remainder amongst
his younger children my brothers & sisters.

Witnesses : Thomas Hyat, Henry Baylie.

Proved 12 April 1602.

Consistory of Oxford, Series I, Vol. 14, p. 191.

Nuncupative Will of Philip Averell of Chipping Norton, co.
Oxford.

that in the year 1627 Phillipp Averell of Chippingnorton Oxford
being moved to make his last Will & Testament nuncupative
. . . said his mind and will was that his cousin [nephew] William
Averell should have all his goods &c and also that he had given
him a special charge to pay the debts of him the said Phillip
Averell and to dispose the rest of his goods amongst the kinsfolk
of the said William Averell.

Witnesses : John Norgrove, Samuel Averell, Isabell Newman,
Laurens Ellmes (?)

21 February 1628 Commission to William Averell
"nepote d fratre” of the said deceased.

Pererogative Court, Canterbury, 10 Ridley.

THE ENGLISH ANCESTRY OF WILLIAM AVERILL

23

The Aver ell {Avery) Family of Chipping Norton, co. Oxford.

I. John AvERiE^of Chipping Norton, co. Oxford, will proved 10 March 1577.

Children :

i. Walter.

ii. George, who was executor of his father’s will.

II. Annes Averie, sister of John, married Crosley before 1577. Men-

tioned in her brother’s will.

III. William Averie, brother of John, was named in his will in 1577.

Children:

i. Phillip, named in 1577 in the will of his uncle John.

ii. Richard, named in 1577 in the will of his uncle John.

iii. Edward, named in 1577 in the will of his uncle John. He was one of
the Burgesses of the Borough on 27 Feb. 1607. His will was proved in

the Consistory Court of Oxford, 25 Sept. 1617. He married Judith ,

whose will dated 20 Oct. 1618, was proved 20 Feb. 1618-19.

Children :

1. John, named in 1617 in the will of his father.

2. William, named in his father’s will in 1617 ; was Bailiff of
Chipping Norton in 1634; emigrated to New England and was
living at Ipswich as early as Mar. 2, 1637. He married 26 Nov.
1618, at Chipping Norton, Abigail, daughter of John Hinton of
Bicester, co. Oxford. William Averill’s will, dated July 3, 1652
at Ipswich, was proved Mar. 29, 1653. His wife Abigail, died
at Ipswich shortly before Mar. 27, 1655, when the inventory of
her estate was returned at Court by her son William.

Children :

i. Abigail, bapt. 17 Oct. 1619, Chipping Norton.

ii. Mary, bapt. 14 Oct. 1621, Chipping Norton.

iii. Hanna, bapt. 28 Sept. 1623, Chipping Norton.

iv. William, bapt. 26 June, 1625, Chipping Norton ; was a
carpenter and removed to Topsfield in 1663. He mar-
ried July 31, 1661, Hannah Jackson of Ipswich and died
Apr. 23, 1691, in Topsfield ; 14 children.

v. Thomas, bapt. 7 Jan. 1630-1, Chipping Norton ; m. Dec.
8, 1657, Frances Collings of Ipswich; lived in Topsfield,
1663-1667, where his daughter Sarah was born Mar. 23,
1666-7. Removed to Portsmouth, N. H. ; died in 1681.

vi. John, bapt. 11-, 1632, Chipping Norton; was living in
Ipswich in 1667.

vii. Sarah, probably born in New England ; married Nov.
23, 1663, John Wildes of Topsfield ; was hanged as a
witch, July 19, 1692, at Salem.

3. Thomas, named in his father’s will in 1617.

4. Samuel, named in his father’s will in 1617.

5. Edward, named in his father’s will in 1617.

6. Margaret, named in her father’s will in 1617.

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

COPIED FROM SALEM NEWSPAPERS

By George Francis Dow

Continued from Volume XXVII, page 140

The Town Hall Committee are entitled to great credit for the
faithfulness and public spirit with which they discharged their
duties. The many discussions that took place and the warm
feelings that were engendered pending the consideration of the
enterprise, evidently inspired the Committee to do their best to
build the structure for the lowest possible amount consistent
with durable and creditable work. Their services were all gra-
tuitous, though by their report it appears that they held nearly
one hundred meetings for consultation and business. They
probably saved full $2000 by their personal oversight and charge
of the details. The entire cost of the building was $13,230.92 —
the cost of furnishing being exactly $1773.14 additional, and this
sum includes the soldier’s tablet and the grading in front. The
committee present every detail of expenditure in their printed
report.

The Town Debt of Topsfield now amounts to $33,000, of which
$14,000 is on account of the hall. As an offset there is now in
the treasury $2,369.07. There was paid, last year, on notes and
loan, the sum of $3,523.

The Current Town Expenses the past year, have amounted to
$11,854.90, as follows; Schools, $1346.63 ; interest, $2,117.23; poor
$1257.57; State tax, $1120; County tax, $769.40; highways,
$805.38 ; bridges and fences, $330.62 ; new roads, $394.65 ; path-
ing snow, $298.45 ; State Aid, $924.00 ; tomb, $432.25 ; printing,
$62.94 ; rent of Union Hall, $73.00 ; abatement of taxes, $50.58 ;
Town Hall, and outbuilding, $206.95 ; insurance on Town Hall,
$275.00; discount on taxes, $326.72; Town officers, $674.91 ; mis-
cellaneous expenses, $340.62.

(24)

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

25

Tramps and the Poor. — No less than 225 tramps were lodged
at the almshouse last year. There are now 7 inmates of the
house, there having been an average of 6 during the year, the
cost of maintenance, for each one, being about $2.75 per week.

A Praise Meeting was held in the Methodist church on Sunday
evening, and it was well attended, although the state of travel-
ing interfered somewhat with the attendance. The leading
singers were from the Kellogg English Opera Troupe, now in
Boston, and the director was Prof. Kinsen, assisted by Messrs.
Dixon, Morgan, Gould, and Nichols. The organist was Miss
Mary A. Balch. Thanks are due to Mr. Towle, for his assistance
at the rehearsal and concert, and to Mr. Foster, as critic. Many
encores were given at the rehearsal, but such demonstrations
were omitted on Sunday. It is hoped the out of town singers
will be present with us again.

Statistics. — There were thirteen marriages in town in 1874,
twenty-four deaths, and the same number of births. The oldest
person who died was Zaccheus Gould, whose age was eighty-
four years, and seven were over seventy years of age.

Salem Gazette, Mar. 3, 1875.

The Dancing School kept here in the Town Hall, the present
winter, by Mr. Eben Upton, of Salem, gives much satisfaction.
Large numbers attend, and make rapid progress in this graceful
accomplishment, which the young enjoy so much. The man-
agers are Charles W. Fields, C. A. Frame, and Jerad McLane,
of the school and assemblies, who give perfect satisfaction.

An Entertainment by the young people for the benefit of the
Orthodox Society, was given at the Town Hall on Thursday
evening. It consisted of the singing of old time hymns and
tunes, some of them very solemn for the occasion and more fit-
ting to a funeral ; tableaux ; a charade, "Independent a "dumb
orator” oration ; a burlesque, "Duchess of Kent,” etc. Singing
and music were interspersed, and the whole formed a very agree-
able entertainment which was enjoyed by a large audience.
Music was furnished by Jeremiah Balch, assisted by F. Styles,
Eddie and Clarence Balch and C. Winslow ; pianist, Miss Mary
A. Balch. The president of the evening was Rev. J. H. Fitts.
Among the principal contributors to the success of the occasion
were Miss L. Wright, Miss L. Lake, Miss Carrie Lake, Miss Ed-
wards, Mr. Stanwood, Mr. B. Pike, Mr. C. H. Leach, Mr. N.
McLoud, and Master J. Hawley. A sociable and supper followed.
A. Billings was treasurer, for the evening. The clothing room
was in the care of S. Averill and C. H. Gould. The exhibition
of the May Queen was the best of the performances. The cor-

26

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

respondent, who chronicles these things, takes occasion to add :
"We have handsome girls in Topsfield, though some are trans-
planted from other climes.”

A Masquerade Ball will be given in the Town Hall on Friday
evening, March 26. Upton Brothers’ full quadrille band will
furnish the music, and the admission for gentlemen, with ladies,
will be $1.00; tickets to the gallery, 25 cents. It will probably
be the most amusing and laughable time ever experienced in
Topsfield. Tickets must be secured early, as a good deal of in-
terest prevails as to who shall be on the floor with sheet and
pillow case. Salem Gazette, Mar. 17, 1875.

Topsfield Division Sons of Temperance, No. 81. — Officers chos-
en at last meeting for the next quarter are as follows: William
Perkins, W. P., re-elected ; Miss Alice M. Long, W. A. ; Miss
Esther W. Sides, R. S. ; Miss Susie Floyd, A. R. S ; Horace Ray,
Treasurer; J. B. McLane, F. S. ; D. E. Hurd, Chaplain; Edwin
K. Foster, Con. ; Miss Sarah Ferguson, A. C. ; Charles Carmody,
I. S. ; E. Ferguson, O. S. ; William A. Perkins, Organist. On
Tuesday evening, April 6, a public installation of the officers
takes place. All are invited to be present who are interested in
the cause of intemperance and desire its removal from our midst.
A temperance lecture will also be given that evening, in connec-
tion with other exercises.

Thursday evening a grand ball was given by the managers of
the dancing school taught by Eben Upton, of Salem. A large
gathering. Music by Upton’s Quadrille Band. Good order pre-
vailed and all enjoyed themselves. Thus ends the dancing
school. Now for six or eight more assemblies, before the warm
season makes it appearance. A hop is the order of the day or
night — nothing else need intrude at present, for no intrusion will
be tolerated for a moment.

The Schools. — The Committee, in their annual report, make
some judicious general remarks on the value of the public
schools to the community, and sum up the satisfactory condi-
tion of the town schools as follows : They (the Committee), "are
fortunate in not being obliged to speak of wasted money, worth-
less schools, incompetent or unfaithful teachers. Each school
may be pronounced in strict truth a good school, and each teach-
er able, diligent, and earnest. While there has been a great di-
versity in acquirement, temperament and method of the respec-
tive teachers, there have been in all conscientiousness and tact
enough to ensure success and to entitle them to the grateful re-
membrance of both the scholars and their guardians.”

Salem Gazette, April 7, 1875.

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

27

There will be in the Town Hall, Monday evening April 26, a
musical concert and a promenade given by Messrs. E. P. Wildes
and John Gould, in connection with the Singing School, consist-
ing of glees, songs, duets, music by the Topsfield Quadrille Band
and others. If the weather is unfavorable, it will be postponed
one week. After the concert there will be a grand promenade
for all who wish to enjoy themselves in that direction. The
school has been a success ; large numbers have attended and all
have taken great interest in making an effort to progress in their
musical knowledge, which none could help doing under the
direction of E. P. Wildes. Good order prevailed during the term,
and as the season closes all can but wish another winter to have
as prosperous a school, in our midst.

Salem Gazette , April 21, 1875.

The Sons of Temperance now have their quarters in Bailey’s
block.

A falling scythe at Mr. B. P. Adams’s store, on Saturday, cut
Mr. Austin Lake’s hand so severely that it is feared he will lose
some of his fingers.

Salem Gazette, May 4, 1875.

The tallest person now living in New England is said to be
Charles H. Holmes, Esq., of Topsfield in this State whose height
is six feet and eight inches ! Mr. Holmes is the last surviving
child of the late Hon. John Holmes, of Maine, for many years
distinguished as a Representative and Senator in Congress from
that State during the administrations of Madison, Monroe,
Adams and Jackson, and also, as being of the well-known politi-
cal firm of those days, of "John Holmes, James Madison, Felix
Grundy and the devil.” — Traveller.

"In accordance with the rules and regulations, the 29th of May,
(the 30th being Sunday), will be observed as Memorial Day, by
the Grand Army of the Republic ; and the customary honors
will be paid to the memory of our departed comrades, by public
services and by visiting and decorating the graves where they
lie. In making arrangements for its observance, it will be well
for Departments and Posts to invite the co-operation of comrades
not members of the Grand Army, the local authorities, select-
men, school committee, &., the clergy, teachers and scholars of
the public schools, and all who may feel interested in these
memorial services. As each succeeding year passes away, we
see more clearly how deep is the obligation we owe to these
men, and how justly they are entitled to be enrolled among the
heroes and martyrs of Liberty. By commemorating them, we

28

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

attest our solemn thankfulness to Almighty God, that in the
hour of peril to our national life our country found such brave
defenders ; and while we mourn their loss, we seek to impress
upon our hearts, and the hearts of all, the inspiring lessons of
fortitude, patriotism, and self-devotion, afforded by their noble
lives and glorious deaths. We remember not only those who
fell during the war, but those who have passed away since, in
the earnest hope that all those who as good soldiers did their
duty in the field may be inspired by a proper consciousness of
faithfulness there, to show themselves always worthy citizens
of the great republic which their valor saved.” It is desired
that there be a memorial sermon preached by each pastor.

It is hoped the members of G. A. R. of this place will be fore-
most in arranging for the day, and getting the citizens to join
the procession, and after visiting the graves assemble in the
Town Hall for other exercises in whatever time can be spared
before going with the Post of Georgetown and Byfield to which
Post members of this place belong.

The names of the soldiers buried here, in the two cemeteries,
are as follows : George Hobson, Harrison Foster, Eugene Todd,
John Bradstreet, Oscar Curtis, Asa P. Kneeland, Augustus Hood,
Wm. Janes, Thomas Peabody, Alfred Kneeland, Haywood Wildes,
Franklin H. Kneeland, Otis Dodge, William H. Wildes.

Salem Gazette , May 19, 1875.

Business here is looking at least a shade or two brighter. Mr.
Chas. Herrick, who has at no time let up greatly in his shoe
manufacturing operations, started up in fuller force on Monday,
a proceeding justified by increased orders.

Mr. John Bailey has begun the foundation for an enlargement
of his building, which, rumor says, is to receive the addition of
a French roof. Mr. B. now uses a caloric engine, and intends,
we hear, to put in another.

In this town, as well as in Byfield and Georgetown, the ex-
ercises were under the auspices of Everett Peabody Post, 108,
of Georgetown, which includes the Grand Army membership of
this neighborhood. In all the exercises the Post was accompan-
ied by the Boxford Brass Band, who were engaged for the day,
and who performed in a very creditable manner — the dirges and
other sacred music having been particularly well rendered. In
Topsfield the ceremonies were held at a very early hour, the
graves in the lower ground having been decorated by the Tops-
field members before the arrival of the main Post, from George-
town, in the quarter before seven train. At this hour a proces-
sion was formed at the depot, and, preceded by the band,

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

29

marched to the upper cemetery, where the graves were decor-
ated. In the procession there was quite a full representation
of the Centre School, accompanied by the teacher. From here
the march was resumed to the Town Hall, where the exercises
were presided over by Mr. Jackson Phillips, who had general
charge of the arrangements in this town. The band occupied a
position in front, the Grand Army came next, and the remainder
of the hall was very well filled, though not crowded, with citizens
generally, a number of leading citizens occupying a position on
the platform. Prayer was offered by Rev. Mr. Meredith of the
Methodist Church, there was an address by Rev. J. H. Fitts of
the Congregational Church, a poem by C. H. Holmes, Esq., and
a brief address by Richard Phillips, Esq. Rev. Mr. Fitts found
an appropriate and sympathetic introduction to the comrades of
the Post in the fact that he was out in the army as a delegate
of the Christian Commission. Mr. Holmes’s poem will appear
in our next. The ceremonies were concluded with "America,”
by the band, the audience rising. This closed the exercises in
Topsfield, and, at half-past nine, the Post took the train for
Georgetown.

For a small town there is considerable building this season.
Mr. Francis Curtis (son of the Boxford man of the same name),
is building a cottage just above Rev. Mr. McLoud’s. Mr. Moses
Bradstreet has torn down his old house on the south side of
Ipswich river, and is putting up a new one, which Mr. Potter is
building. Mr. D. E. Hurd (brother of Dr. H. of Ipswich), is
building a house on Grove street, which runs from the depot in
the direction of Boxford. Mr. Eugene Wildes contemplates
building a house at the east part of the town on the road to the
camp-ground. Mr. Wm. Wildes has the cellar of a house nearly
completed near the centre of the village.

The result of the contest between Essex and Topsfield in
Base Ball was unsatisfactory especially to the Essex boys as
they lost their "Dollar Ball.” The game was far from being
ordinary, but was not quite up to the "Bostons,” several double
plays being made amid the loudest yells from the multitude sur-
rounding the field. The Essex gentlemen made a very good
impression generally, but one or two had about five dollars too
much, which they continually flapped in the faces of our poor
people, much to the disgust of the betting fraternity. Mr.
Augustus Frame filled the unenviable position of Umpire and
gave his decisions firmly. Mr. Frame is a thorough "Base
Ballist.” He led the famous "Dolly Vardin” Club in the tussel
with the Hasheaters, in which they were victorious, last year.
In the present match the score stood, Topsfield 26, Essex, 18.

30

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

It is feared that hydrophobia may ensue in the case of Mr.
Aaron Andrews, who was bitten by a rabid dog, on Saturday
last.

Twenty-seven hens have been stolen from the hennery of Mr.
William Dwinalls.

The first class in spelling will give an exhibition of their pro-
ficiency (and deficiency) in orthography, on Tuesday evening,
June 1. Members admitted to class at any time before 8 o’clock.
Receipts go to the Public Library. If stormy on Tuesday even-
ing, the spell will be postponed to Wednesday evening.

Salem Gazette, June 2, 1875.

The "Boston Herald” says: "Mr. Holmes of Topsfield isn’t the
tallest man, after all, in New England. He has a rival in Wood-
stock, Vermont, just the same in height, 6 feet, 8 inches. But
he is a boy under 20 years of age, named Wm. Swan, and still
growing. Guess the Esq. is beaten this time as he already has
grown up through his hair. But in William the odds are yours!

Mr. Samuel Todd fell from a ladder and broke his ankle. It
is feared that he will have a stiff joint.

Mr. George Ellard has purchased the Conroid Estate on Ips-
wich street.

No licenses have as yet been granted, the Selectmen having
had no application. Topsfield is the place to live in. No liquor
sold or drank. Oh no !

Although the last to be affected, and the last to recover from
the "spelling mania,” it is not the least in its result. The last
spell was holden in the Town Hall, Tuesday evening. Many
members were admitted to the class later than the advertised
time, 8 o’clock, and many showed their deficiency before they
spelled at all by not answering to their names. Mrs. Jas. Fitts
took the first prize, an elegant copy of "Bryant’s Songs.” Miss
Hattie K. received the second prize with outstretched arms. In
justice to Miss Kimball it would be well to say that none other
than outstretched arms could receive the prize on account of
its massiveness, it being a huge boquet of lilacs and mulleins.
No "Interrogatives” put. Mr. Sidney A. Merriam propounded
the words and Messrs. Fitts and Merideth acted as judges.
Without any further advertising it was voted to meet again
next Tuesday evening, "pro bono publico,” in the same place.

Salem Gazette, June 9, 1875.

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

31

MR. HOLMES’S POEM.

[Read by C. H. Holmes , Esq., in Topsfield, on “Memorial Day. ”]

The two great epochs of our day,

Each forming a distinct era,

Was that which gave our country birth
Among the nations of the earth,

Which all our clustering memories fix
As July fourth, year seventy-six.

And yet this declaration free
Was in itself a fallacy.

Indeed our very prefaced rights,

The people we, mean only whites ;

And e’en our genius Liberty
(Meaning the universal free,)

Not like the one on Aventine
The Romans worshipped as divine,

Was but a genius in the hope
And not the nation’s present scope.

The second epoch of our times,

Which all of Liberty combines,

Was wrought out by Rebellion’s war
Resolving forth true freedom’s law,

Effecting thus far more, far more
Than the old Union to restore, —

Removing forever foul slavery’s band,

Man’s sale of man, the galling chain,

Making us freest of the free
In civil Christian liberty.

When all men, all, both black and white,

Have equal privilege and right,

And all can bow at Freedom’s shrine
As Roman free on the Aventine.

Whoe’er in this cause fought and bled
We’d honor, but our hero dead.

Our heroes who died to save
Their country, and who found a grave,

We would to them loud paeans raise,

Immortal honors, songs of praise.

We’d strew their graves with fresh culled flowers,

The choicest of our sunny bowers,

And we’d decree this day to be
A nation’s sacred Jubilee.

32

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

Then lift the heart and lift the voice
And let us sacredly rejoice,

That never accomplish by the war
An universal freedom law.

Ring out the anthem long and loud,

With harp and pipe and vocal song,

And glory, honor, praises, be
To them who died to make us free.

Salem Gazette, June 9, 1875.

The Pentucket house, Georgetown, has been leased to Mr.
Pierson late of Topsfield, formerly of Lynn, a successful hotel
and boarding house keeper.

The Ladies’ Missionary Society held its strawberry festival,
as advertised, last Tuesday evening, in the vestry of the Congre-
gational Church. Few were present, but ail had a good time.

The Topsfield "Boys” defeated the "Emmets” of Danvers, in
a game of base ball, by a score of 30 to 4.

The Rev. E. P. Tenny, of Ashland, Mass., (formerly of this
place), preached two very fine sermons, on Sunday last, to a full
house, at the Orthodox church.

A wolf is said to be prowling around the woods, having been
seen by two different persons or at two different times by one
person. The latter is considered more probable, if it is to be
considered at all. Salem Gazette, June 23, 1875.

Messrs. Editors: — I send you a copy of a letter written by one
of our Topsfield soldiers in the Revolution. Ezra Perkins was
corporal, and his brother David, second lieutenant, in Capt.
Stephen Perkins’s company, which marched from Topsfield on
the 19th of April, 1775. The brothers seem to have continued
in the service till the close of the war. The letter was written
home to his father. It shows how the commissary department
of the army was furnished at that time : —

To David Perkins. — Sir: — I Take this opertunity to inform
you that I am in good Helth and all the rest of our company,
and I hope that these lines will find you so ; and I wold be glad
If you would Dy my thred Stokins a light blue and send them
when you send my Shorts, and fech me a fork. I have no Nuse
to rite to you at Present, for ther is not so much Nuse Down
hear as there is with you ; and I would be glad if you would
send me three Pounds and a half of Shugar and fech it Down
when you com Down. Ezra Perkins.

Cambig, June the 14, 1775. To Mr. David Perkins, of
Topsfield.

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

33

Complaints have been made to the selectmen, in regard to
parties playing "'foot ball” in the street, on account of which "by
laws" have been made prohibiting the use of any ball, foot or
hand, with a penalty attached.

Topsfield has "split" or rather its Brass Band has. Alas for
Topsfield ! No more "open air concerts" on the superb "Band"
stand, but plenty on the street corners. Alas ! Alas !

The "Mulligans" parade every Saturday night, and the resi-
dents on Main street are frequently awakened from their slum-
bers by the loud applauding of their "body guard."

A swallow entered and made the circuit of the Congregational
Church several times and flew out of the window, — about which
time Mrs. Charles Janes died.

Mrs. Lorenzo Towne died last Friday, after a lingering sickness,
in which she was a great sufferer. The funeral took place on
Sunday last, the Rev. Anson McLoud officiating.

Salem Gazette, June 30, 1875.

The dance, the event of the season, for such it proved to the
"prettiest young lady," was enjoyed by a few, the greater part
whom were strangers from the neighboring towns. Music was
furnished by the Topsfield Quadrille Band.

Mr. Eben Upton was also in attendance, accompanied by his
time-honored servant, his violin. The "Heated Term," for so it
has been called, and appropriately too, was sandwiched with re-
freshments, consisting of ice cream, strawberries, cake, etc.,
which disappeared like "hot cakes."

In Topsfield, the usual demonstrations were made, (in spite of
the pretended opposition manifested,) according to the time
honored custom of ringing bells, firing of cannon, and above all
the blast of that horrid instrument, the fish-horn. Some person
or persons, perhaps in office, spiked the old "Continental Gun"
in order to prevent it from being used, but the "boys" were pre-
pared and the spikes were withdrawn and the old "gun" was
soon venting its rage and telling the story of its abuse to the
towns-folks in a tone more than audible. No serious accident
occurred to mar the happiness of all, and "Young America"
seemed to appreciate the "fourth" wonderfully.

TOPSFIELD REVISITED

Still are the hills of Topsfield fair,

Her valleys rich in beauty rare,

As when my childish feet first trod
Her varied ways and knew each sod !

34

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

Since then the world I’ve journeyed round.
And joyously my pulses bound,

As glistening spire and peaceful farms
Smile from the hill's encircling arms.

Once more for me, while shadowed dark
The distant woods the horizon mark ;

And lovely are the wandering gleam,

The graceful banks, of Ipswich stream !
The sunny reach of meadows wide,

The leafy bowers on either side !

Through fertile fields the highway winds,
And all too soon the village finds ;

Where balconies and porches show
Around a gabled homestead low,

And sheltering elms have not forgot
To whisper o’er a modest cot.

The home of wealth here towers high,

The well-known cobbler’s shop I spy,

And idlers round the open door
Of that exchange, the village store.

Loud rings the smith’s great anvil still,

And briars clothe the Academy Hill.

The breezy Common, green and wide,

The mountain ash the church beside,

The church itself, the school house bare,
Unchanged, a different aspect wear : —

For I am weather-worn and old,

Unlike that untamed urchin bold,

Who cut these desks, and stained this floor,
And battered in this dingy door.

But one by one again appear
My boon companions seated here.

The master labors to inspire
A glimmer of ambition’s fire,

Applies his knuckles to each crown
As if to hammer knowledge down.

And all the aisles of Wildes’s grove
Re-echo with the tones I love ;

And still the squirrel saucily
Flings down an empty shell at me,

And still the bird with scarlet crest
Hides in the oak her lonely nest.

The Parsonage woods this summer day,
With hints of ladies’ slippers gay,

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

35

Lure me to enter, seek, and find.

The lane, with budding thickets lined,
Across the hurrying brook invites,

And more and more my eyes delights,

As paths adown the hillside stray
Where children tumble in the hay,

And through low bending boughs appears
A landmark of two hundred years, —

Quiet and quaint the old house sleeps,

And many a secret sacred keeps.

Across the fields, so fair to see,

The locust clusters beckon me
To follow the returning bees,

And stay beneath the fragrant trees.

The strawberries blush deep in the grass,
The buttercups nod as I pass,

The neighboring pines’ delicious sigh
Now and again goes floating by,

As in those golden afternoons
So like to this in other Junes.

Once more, but not with line and hook,

I stroll by trout-famed Gallup’s Brook.

Its banks no fairer fringes wore
Of rarest ferns in days of yore,

No clearer did its waters show
The shining pebbles down below.

Alas ! these twenty years and three
Have traced their saddest lines on me !

And slowly now my footsteps seek
The Old Road to the Dry Bridge bleak.

A traveller through the by-gone time,

A pilgrim to a sacred shrine,

I am as sensitive to-day
As blossoms on the barberry spray.

The stream-worn stone beneath my feet,
The pond, the willow’s lettered seat,

The pasture path through trampled brakes,
What tender memories each awakes.

And here impatient cows await
The barefoot boy who cometh late.

Go whistling on thy way, my boy,

May time but bring thee deeper joy 1
Rugged and steep the road I tread,

Ringing with carols overhead,

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NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

Sparkling with trickling rills that start
Unbidden from the Great Hill’s heart,

Toward three tall trees I wander on,

No longer old, no more alone, —

Walking again in auld lang syne,

In spirit with that friend of mine
Who used to love those hickory trees,

And now the heavenly beauty sees.

0, for one short and happy hour
I feel again the conquering power
Of vigorous life, dream long long dreams,

While hope upon my pathway beams,

And glorifies the earth anew,

And all the world are good and true.

One radiant face alone I see,

An angel ministers to me,

Draws from my soul its every care
And holy peace impresses there.

And though before my yearning eyes
Regretfully the bright day dies,

Yet as the glow fades from the hills
A calmer light the valley fills,

So sweet in memory shall abide
The comfort of this eventide.

O early home, forever dear !

Blessed the fate that brought me here !

[Nehemiah Cleaveland]

The death of Mr. Benj. P. Adams, the postmaster, after a ling-
ering illness of many months, deprives Topsfield of one of its
most influential men, both in the public and the private wTalks
of this little town. The postmastership will be filled, doubtless
by his son, a young man esteemed and respected by all, who is
abundantly able to fill the office having had the sole charge of
it during his father’s illness, and assisting him in his labors the
past eight years. Salem Gazette, July 14, 1875.

An effort is being made, since the death of Air. B. P. Adams,
postmaster, to secure the removal of the office from the old
place. The effort began when Mr. Adams had been dead but a
few hours, and this course excited considerable comment, and
probably did not tend to facilitate the movement. Mr. Adams’s
son, who will continue his father’s business, started with a paper
in his own behalf last Tuesday forenoon, and before 9 at night,
had 100 names. Last week he had about 150, as we hear. With-

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

37

out disparagement to anybody else, it seems to be the general
desire of the citizens that the office remain in the old place
where the people have been well served, and where the younger
Adams has, for many months past been the active man.

The season of gathering ripe grain is upon us and the farmers
are busily at work, day and a good part of the night, preparing
the grass, and harvesting the hay, which, by the way, is quite
light in this locality.

The "Fish Committee” are busily at work, which is pleasing
to know, stocking the pond according to the instructions given
by the town, with Black Bass from Wareham, Mass. Twenty-
seven large fish have been placed in the pond and twice as many
more are to be placed there.

Salem Gazette, July 21, 1875.

A Groveland correspondent of the Haverhill Bulletin says :
"B. P. Adams, Esq., of Topsfield, lately deceased, was a graduate
of Merrimack Academy, in this place, some 45 years ago, and
has always been remembered kindly by our older people. Mr.
Adams was at one time, in the years from 1830 to 1835, landlord
of the old Topsfield hotel, situated on the Newburyport and
Boston Turnpike. But few men were better known through
the county of Essex.

Salem Gazette, July 28, 1875.

The inhabitants of Topsfield are indulging, just now, in beach
parties, picnics, and fish-fries, without number. Nearly every
day witnesses one of the above occurrences and three- in hand,
doubles and singles are quite frequent on the road.

The addition to Mr. John Bailey’s shoe factory is fast approach-
ing completion.

The Boston and Maine railroad corporation have made their
depot more attractive than it was formerly, by a general " fixing
up.” New doors have taken the places of old ones and the walls
have shaken off their dirty coat of soiled paper and assumed a
color, not unlike the human flesh, neat and clean, and pleasing
to the eye. The wainscoting is grained, representing chestnut,
and this, with new floors and settees in the inside and a good
coat of paint on the outside, renders the station pleasant and
cosy.

There is a notice posted in public, per order of the fish com-
mittee, forbidding the taking of fish from Hood’s Pond, or any
other waters, where fishes are cultivated, or maintained. Who-
ever violates this order shall forfeit not less than one dollar nor
more than twenty , for the first offence, and not less than five nor

38

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

more than fifty for subsequent offence, according to Sect. 19,
chapter 384, of the act of 1869.

Mr. John Perley has found on his farm splendid specimens of
gold and silver, or specimens that are said to be such by old and
experienced miners.

Salem Gazette, August 4, 1875

Mr. Philbrook, the foreman on the "Pierce Farm,” picked and
sent 25,000 cucumbers to the Boston market last week.

Mr. Herbert Gould, the stationer, whose store was on Central
Street, has removed to Manchester, N. H., and intends to pursue
his former business. We wish him success !

Hearing at the Town Hall and also at the County Commis-
sioner’s office at Salem, on widening and straightening Wenham
Street and locating a new piece of road near the R. R. crossing
according to plan of S. S. McKenzie.

Benj. P. Adams who began to renovate the old store, has re-
sumed his father’s business.

Daniel Fuller has begun on Summer St. the cellar of his 2 1/2
story house.

Salem Gazette, Aug. 11, 1875

[A communication comes to us from Topsfield expressing re-
grets at the anticipated change of post-office, in behalf of many
citizens. We withhold the communication, as we fail as yet to
see the evidence that any change is contemplated, whatever
may happen. The writer speaks warmly of Mr. Adams, and of
the very accommodating spirit in which the post-office has been
managed both for the benefit of citizens of the town and of
strangers who may be sojourning here.]

Salem Gazette, Sept 8, 1875

Shoe business has assumed a livelier turn in the factory of
Mr. John Bailey. Mr. Bailey is working on orders, and, for fear
that they may be countermanded, is employing every facility to
fulfil them. The manufacturers here receive but little encour-
agement by way of profits, and an exceedingly dull fall trade is
also predicted by them.

Mr. Daniel Fuller has completed the cellar wall to his house
and laid the granite underpinning. The work of the carpenters
will begin this week as Mr. Fuller intends to occupy the house
this winter.

Topsfield has suffered considerably this season from hen
thieves, who, in almost every attempt, have succeeded in taking,
at least, a dozen hens from the several losers. Mr. Samuel Todd

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

39

and Mr. Erwin Phillips are unfortunately the losers this week.
People who have hens, are arming themselves thoroughly, and
the "poor coroners” pass sleepless nights expecting to be called,
at any hour to view the remains of some unfortunate thief whose
tarn-door-fowl-taking days were suddenly cut short by a "minie.”

The Democrats and Liberal Republicans held a caucus in the
town hall last night, to choose delegates to the State Convention.

The Republicans will hold a caucus in the town hall on Satur-
day evening Sept. 25, to choose delegates to the State Convention.

The $141 which so mysteriously disappeared, last week, at the
"Riverdale Ranch,” has been recovered and the thief detected
through the untiring and indefatigable efforts of Capt I. A. Mor-
gan, assisted by Mr. Philbrick of the state detective force, and
Mr. Henry Lake the constable of this town.

The concert on Sunday evening by the M. E. Sabbath school
under the superintendentship of Mr. David E. Davis, was in-
structive and exceedingly interesting. The singing was con-
ducted by Mr. John Gould. Remarks were made by Rev. J. H.
Fitz of the Congregational church and Mr. Charles J. P. Floyd.
Mr. Floyd spoke at some length, on the manners and customs
of the negroes of Alabama, at which place he, as a teacher,
labored last winter and spring, and to which place he intends to
proceed, in the same capacity, this week.

Mr. Henry Peabody of Danvers has bought out "Floyd’s Ex-
press” and will run the line as usual from this town to Salem.

Rumor has it that Mr. Bailey has been appointed Postmaster,
and that he will assume the duties of the office on the first of
October. As there was no petition circulated in his favor, while
two were extensively signed for other parties, his presumed ap-
pointment has excited much speculation on the part of the cit-
izens, the common belief being that Gen. Butler is the power
that brought the appointment about. Mr. Bailey’s building is
nearly completed, and has been provided with letter boxes. It
will soon be occupied on the first floor by Mr. Bailey Poor as a
dry-goods store, and on the second floor by one of the secret
societies. Salem Gazette, Sept 22, 1875

There is a great change in the appearance of the Balch estate
now owned by Mrs. Lucy Wright. The old barn has been re-
built and remodelled.

Ephraim P. Peabody is making improvements on his house at
the corner of Main and Summer Streets.

Mr. Bailey assumed the duties of postmaster, with Chas. F.
Dodge as assistant, on Friday A. M.

Salem Gazette Oct 5, 1875

40

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

In this town within a week or two past, there have been a
larger number of marriages than usual, as will be seen by the
published record, in another column. Mr. Moore, whose mar-
riage to Miss Averill is recorded, left for his home in Texas on
Tuesday of last week. Two deaths of aged persons have, also
occured, one a sister of Rev. Jacob Hood, now of Lynnfield and
formerly of Salem, and the other the mother of Salmon D. Hood,
Esq., the present representative to the General Court from the
district of which this town is a part.

Valuation and Taxes. — The total valuation of this town is
$770,370, divided as follows : Personal, $282,561, real, 487,809.
Total number of polls, 312. Number of houses, 215; horses, 182;
cows, 388; sheep, 13. The number of acres of land taxed is 7078.
The following is a list of persons and firms who pay a tax of $50
and upwards : —

B. P. Adams, $119.52 ; Mrs. Elizabeth M. Adams, 67.20 ; John
Bailey, 331.68; Humphrey Balch, 108.02; Ezra Batchelder, 165.26;
Dudley Bradstreet, 97.52; Benj. Conant, 75.12: David Clark, 80.17;
John Dwinell, 77.29 ; William P. Galloup, 57.60 ; Andrew Gould,
104.75; est. J. P. Gould, 55.36; A. H. Gould, 168.16; Charles Her-
rick, 232.24 ; Charles Herrick, & Co., 320.00 ; Charles H. Holmes,
104.69; Benj. Jacobs, 79.36; Wm. E. Kimball, 99.52; Wm. B. Kim-
ball, 53.20; est. J.B. Lamson, 119.07; est. R. A. Merriam, 80.00;
Mrs. R.A. Merriam, 800.00 ; James Manning, 59.28 ; Capt. I. A.
Morgan, 151.22; A. S. Peabody, 56.64; E. P. Peabody, 79.44;
Charles J. Peabody, 64.83; Moses B. Perkins, 131.41; Dudley Per-
kins, 116.59; Dudley Q. Perkins, 61.14; est. David Perkins, 70.18;
est. Daniel Perkins, 53.87 ; Richard Phillips, 67.20 ; Thomas W.
Pierce, 944.51; John D. Perry, 58.94; est. Asa Pingree, 76.40;
Price & Shreve, 125.45; Benj. Poole, 108.14; est. Anna Pingree,
469.49; Benj. Pike, 51.15; Bailey Poor, 51.20; Joseph E. Stanwood,
359.44; Willard Smith, 57.33; Frederick Styles, 50.80; Samuel
Todd, 52.59; Eben W. Towne, 57.89; Benj. B. Towne, 173.68;
Jacob A. Towne, 63.61 ; est. J. Waldo Towne, 125.28 ; Jocob P.
Towne, 122.66; Daniel Towne, 65.16; David Towne, 102.56;
William P. Walsh, 61.68 ; Mrs. John Wright, 89.52 ; Miss Susan
Wildes, 52.80; Moses Wildes, 589.26; Albert Webster, 74.21;
Israel Wildes, 59.58 ; Trustees Cong. Society, 56.88. Non-residents:
Nathan W. Hazen, (Andover), 66.45; George G. Rea, (Salem),
124.80 ; Philip B. Lindsey, Marblehead, 54.75.

Salem Gazette. , Oct. 13 , 1875.

Over one hundred persons were present at the tin wedding
of Mr. William Rea, last Wednesday night, at his residence on
the farm.

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

41

The proximity of a leaden ball to the head of a chicken thief
saved the roost of Mr. Lucius Annable, last Thursday night.

Mr. John Bailey is slowly recovering from a sudden and
severe attack of sickness, on account of which his shoe factory is
closed.

The delay in announcing the postponement of the lecture on
"Seventeen reasons why men don’t go to church,” by Rev.
Henry Morgan, in the Town Hall, last Wednesday evening, was
the source of much inconvenience to many of our citizens, who
were desirous of hearing this subject set forth, as it is well
known that seven times seventeen reasons exist in this town.

At the dance, Tuesday night, in the Town Hall, Miss Carrie
Cass was presented the prize offered by the manager "for the
best lady dancer.”

Salem Gazette , Oct. 20, 1875.

The wife of a well known citizen mysteriously disappeared
last Wednesday, taking with her her entire wardrobe and quite
a sum of money. Facts in the case point clearly to an elope-
ment, and, as the parties are respectably connected, names are
withheld.

Republican Caucus. — The Republicans met in the Town Hall,
last Monday evening week, and organized with the choice of D.
Bradstreet, Moderator, J. W. Batchelder, Secretary. Delegates
were chosen as follows : To the County Convention, E. F. Perkins
and Wm. Welch; Senatorial Convention, C. Herrick and J. W.
Batchelder ; to the convention at Lynnfield for nominating Rep-
resentative for the 20th district to the General Court, Samuel
Todd, D. Bradstreet, J. W. Batchelder, Geo. F. Averill, J. H.
Towne, Daniel Fuller, Wm. W. Gallup and John H. Potter. J.
W. Batchelder, D. Bradstreet, and John H. Potter were chosen
as a Republican Town Committee; and Wm. Welch, E. F. Per-
kins, J. H. Towne, Daniel Fuller and Edwin Foster were chosen
a committee to rally and distribute votes. The subject of invit-
ing speakers to address the voters of the town, during the
present campaign, was referred to the Republican Town Com-
mittee.

Rev. Henry Morgan will lecture in the Town Hall, on Tues-
day and Wednesday evenings of this week, on "Seventeen reas-
ons why men don’t go to church.”

The funeral of the late Wm. P. Dodge, who died in the insane
hospital, Worcester, took place in the Congregational Church,
last Friday afternoon at two o’clock. The services were con-
ducted by the Rev. James H. Fitts, pastor of the society, assisted
by the church quartette, led by Mr. Ephraim Averill. There

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NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

were present many friends, including the Naumkeag Encamp-
ment, No. 13, 1. O. O. F., the Essex Lodge, No. 26, I. 0. O. F.,
both of Salem, and the Fountain Lodge, No 170, 1. O. 0. F., of
Topsfield. After the services at the church, the societies es-
corted the procession to the grave, where they, as is customary,
held a service peculiar to the order, which was simple and ap-
propriate, yet impressively solemn.

Salem Gazette, Oct 27, 1875.

Affairs in this pleasant town do not change much from year
to year, but the place keeps up a thrifty appearance, and its
houses look neat and well cared for. The town is very at-
tractive to strangers, and this present summer, as well as for
several years previously, many people have come here to board
from Salem and other places.

The new post office fixed up by Mr. Bailey in his greatly im-
proved building, is laid out upon a scale ample enough for a
town four or five times as large, with boxes enough to supply a
large part of the voting population, and an array of lock boxes
very far out of the proportion provided for the accommodation
of the city of Salem. Notwithstanding all these attractive ap-
pliances, however, a good many people were not pleased at the
new dispensation. Not that the new postmaster would not see
that the duties of the office were well performed, but people get
accustomed to their old ways, and having found Mr. B. P. Adams
a very accommodating man, willing to go into the office and get
letters for people living at a distance and who came into the vill-
age only on Sunday, and not unfrequently being thoughtful
enough to put into his pocket letters for people whom he would
see at church, they were reluctant to have the old associations
and conveniences given up.

It seems to have been a puzzle to people given to political spec-
ulation, how Mr. Bailey happened to receive the appointment.
Before Mr. Adams, the postmaster, had been dead many hours,
a petition was put in circulation (by Mr. Bailey, we believe,) in
favor of Mr. Wiggin who appears to have cared little or nothing
about the office. As soon as a counter movement could be de-
cently inaugurated, the younger Mr. Adams made a movement
in his own behalf, and seemed to find no difficulty in getting a
large majority of signers in his favor. The next thing the Tops-
field people know about the matter is, Mr. Bailey himself receives
the appointment and fixes up one of the finest offices to be found
in any town in the county, through originally nobody had heard
of him as a candidate for the position. The two others named
for the office were Democrats, though people generally seemed

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

43

to care but little about that. Whether this was the real secret of
the new appointment; whether all the documents were placed in
the hands of Gen. Butler and he made a decision in the case, or
whether the appointment was brought about through the agency
of Mr. Richard Phillips, who is understood to have favored Mr.
Bailey and who is thought to have influence with a relative of
the Postmaster General, are problems that have interested some
of the people, but have never been decided to the complete
satisfaction of anybody.

The duties of a Topsfield postmastership are not of so arduous
and difficult a character that anybody fears that the office will
not be well administered under the new dispensation, and
there are no doubt men in town who think that "twenty -five
years in one place is long enough,” and that it is time a "Repub-
lican had the office,” etc. But for all this, people as a whole are
sensitive to their own rights and powers, and the feeling is com-
mon that they have been ignored in the present appointment,
even admitting that it may not be an objectionable one in itself.

The business of shoe-manufacturing has been continued up to
the present time with reasonable activity, considering the state
of trade, but operations will soon come to a temporary suspen-
sion, to be resumed probably in December. Mr. Bailey and Mr.
Chas. Herrick are the two leading concerns, and both do much
to promote the industrial prosperity of the town. The business,
here as elsewhere, must be conducted with great care, for, in
addition to the lessened public demand for goods, the profits
are small, and a sharp lookout is necessary to guard against losses.

The poor farm, in this town, as we had occasion to observe
during a recent visit, seems to be a very well and neatly kept
place under the superintendence of Mr. William J. Savage,
formerly of Boxford. The house, within a few years, has been
much improved, and the inmates are not only confortably pro-
vided for but maintained at a low rate. The farm contains
about 100 acres, devoted to corn, potatoes, squashes, hay, and
general produce. One of the hens lately produced a couple of
eggs that weighed within an ounce of a pound. A fine sow of
500 or 600 lbs. is among the agricultural attractions, and last
year she gave birth to 30 pigs, 28 of which she brought up.
Mr. Savage has a very well finished Indian tomahawk which he
dug up on the farm about three years since. The implement is
much better finished than most of the Indian products of its class.

The Georgetown Advocate contains the following : —

"Mrs. Alphonso Munday, of Topsfield, disappeared very
suddenly from her home last Wednesday week, and no tidings

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NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

have been heard of her since, except that it is thought that she
went off on the cars. She had some teeth removed, taking an
anaesthetic, a day or two before her departure, the influence of
which is thought to have remained, thereby causing temporary
insanity. Her friends in Topsfield and this vicinity are very
anxious about her, and any information concerning her dis-
appearance will be thankfully received/’

The above theory of the case is interesting, but is not that
view of the situation which is commonly held in this community.
The way of leaving home is open to criticism ; but the mere
fact that the woman left would hardly be regarded as conclusive
evidence of insanity, under all the circumstance of the case.

The lecture delivered by Rev. Anson McLoud, a member of
the Board of Trustees of the Public Library, — on "The Book,”
its use — in the Congregational Church, on Sunday evening, was
an able production, giving evidence of careful preparation and
study, and that it proved to be exceedingly interesting is thor-
oughly established by the unusual stillness and marked atten-
tion manifested throughout its entire delivery — an hour. The
lecturer gave a detailed account of our Town Library, lately es-
tablished, speaking briefly, yet fully describing the several lib-
raries of which it is composed, and in the highest terms alluding
to the generous motives which have instigated many individuals
to contribute to it. The lecture is of great value, as it has put
before us a method and an object of reading wiiich has never
existed in many, and, if at all, with many imperfections. Com-
ing from a man so abundantly able, it needs no commendation,
as his very name is sufficient to recommend every hearer to
follow the excellent suggestions so admirably set forth in the
lecture. It is generally wished that the lecture may be produced
in a pamphlet form, in order that those who were unable to at-
tend its delivery may have the full benefit of its many good
qualities. Salem Gazette, Nov. 3, 1875.

The dedication of Fountain Lodge, I. O. O. F. hall, will be held
on Thursday evening, with a supper at the Town Hall.

Salem Gazette, Nov. 16, 1875.

The Union Dramatic Club of Danvers will produce in the
Town Hall, Saturday evening, Nov. 27th, 1875, the following
plays. A military drama "The Veteran’s Return” or "Theresa’s
vow,” in which Mr. J. F. Stevens will appear as Sergeant Auster-
litz, and Miss Abbie Bazin as Theresa, and a laughable farce
"That Rascal Tom” or A Hole in the Wall, Mr. Henry A. Peabody
appearing as Thomas. Music by Dyer’s Serenade Band. Polite
ushers will be in attendance.

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

45

Mr. Bailey, as we are informed, begins to start up his business
again this week, after the usual letting up at this season. The
slight fire recently reported at Mr. B’s establishment, we are in-
formed was merely the taking fire of a kerosene lamp, which
was at once thrown out.

Salem Gazette , Nov. 24 , 1875.

Hen Thieves Again. — Mr. Parker B. Perley lost 20 hens last
Sunday week, they being taken from his barn where a part of
his fowls were cooped. On the next night the thieves visited
his premises again, and opened the door of the coop containing
the turkeys, but from some cause or other took none away. Mr.
Baxter P. Pike lost several the same night. The thieves also
visited the coop of Mr. J. E. Andrews.

The winter term of schools in this town began on Monday.

Salem Gazette , Dec. 1 , 1875 .

Thomas Conway, and Frank Consel, a couple of tramps, who
disturbed and frightened several families on their way to the
Poor Farm, at a late hour on Friday night, refused to get up and
labor for their night’s lodging at the Farm as required by law,
and consequently were carted off to Salem and arraigned as
vagrants, and sentenced to the House of Correction for thirty
days.

The street signs are at last up.

Topsfield can boast again this time of having the largest dog,
his weight being one hundred fifty-eight pounds, and only a
year and a half of age.

Salem Gazette , Dec. 15 , 1875.

Installation. — The following named gentlemen will be installed
officers of the Fountain Lodge of Odd Fellows, on Thursday
evening, Jan. 6th: — N. G., William H. Kneeland; V. G., Daniel
E. Hurd; R. Sec., Henry H. Potter; P. Sec., Wesley E. Davis;
Treas., I. M. Woodbury; Trustees, D. E. Hurd, John Bailey,
Benj. Lane.

The was a sociable and watch-meeting held in the vestry of
the M. E. Church on New Year’s eve which was fully attended.

The dance in the Town Hall, on New Year’s eve, was consid-
ered the best of the season. So much for good management.
Music was furnished by French and Winslow’s Quadrille Band.

A benefit for the Town Library will be given Thursday evening ,
Jan. 13th, by the Young People's Dramatic Club.

S. W. Tucker, Esq., recently from California, now residing in
Middleton, will open a singing school in this village, in a few
weeks. Tickets of admission will be, for ladies, $1.00, gentlemen

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NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

$1.50, in advance, either to be paid before the commencement
of the school or on the first night of the term. He comes high-
ly recommended to us as a competent teacher of music, and we
have no doubt but that Mr. Tucker will give great satisfaction
to his patrons. It is desired that all should avail themselves of
the benefits of the whole term, and to accomplish this, all who
wish to become members should do so at once, by leaving their
names with Daniel E. Hurd, Esq., William P. Gould, Esq., or
Hon. Melvin Gould, which gentlemen will be pleased to receive
the names of all ladies and gentlemen who wish to connect them-
selves with this musical enterprise, which is much desired and
needed in our town.

Salem Gazette, Dec. 31, 1875 .

Topsfield as it is. — This is the season of the year when the
people are accustomed to turn back and review the past, ex-
amine the present, and predict for the future. Every man now
casts up his accounts, determines the amount of his year’s labor,
and considers where he stands. While many are prosperous,
and are abundantly supplied with means to provide for all rea-
sonable wants, yet many there are abroad in the land destitute
of food and clothing, and having no house to shelter them through
the winter. But as we look around upon our neighborhood,
prosperity appears in all our borders, and with few exceptions
we believe we can truly say, "our lines are fallen unto us in
pleasant places, yea, we have a goodly heritage.”

Last summer a correspondent of this paper, from the "hill
country,” in a lengthy description of Topsfield, declared her
locality as "scarcely rivalled by any other in the land.” "Un-
surpassed in neatness and elegance, her public buildings were
the pride of her inhabitants, her private dwellings the home of
industry, prosperity and contentment.” By careful observation
of the industry and development of the people during the past
year, we are able to confirm and demonstrate the truth of these
words. It is declared on statistic authority that nine-tenths of
the suffering and crime in the land originate in pecuniary em-
barrassment, debt and intemperance, and it is also styled the
fruitful source of overcrowded prisons and poorhouses. How
is it with us in this respect ? About a mile from the village, on
a gentle slope of Great Hill to the southeast, the town possesses
an estate of a hundred acres, with elegant buildings thereon,
suitably adapted in all respects to a model farm. Here is the
"house of industry,” our poorhouse. Besides the manager of
the farm, with his good wife, the landlady of the house, four
citizens of the town reside at the place, who are supported in

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

47

part at the public expense. This is the whole number of our
dependent population.

Intemperance is said to be almost unknown in our midst ; in-
somuch that it is the statement of men of observation that in-
stances of intoxication are rarely to be seen, and there is no
licensed place for the sale of liquor in the town. The history
of crime within our limits the past year has made no record
against her citizens. And no case of insolvency has occurred
in the town for the past three years. Thus we are convinced
by this record that industry and prosperity prevail to a great
extent throughout all our borders.

Our two societies, the Methodist and Congregationalist, are
in a united and flourishing condition. At least there is no ap-
parent division among the members — a circumstance not un-
common in their past history. Your Essex County Mercury has
recently reported an account of their annual Christmas festivals,
which were considered very successful.

The new town library, which has its depository in the Town
Hall, is in a flourishing condition. A large collection of valuable
books is here provided for the use of the people, and the eager-
ness with which they are read may be judged by the throng of
people gathered there weekly, on library day, from all parts of
the town, thanks to those few individuals, founders of the
library, who were in part opposed to the erection of the Town
Hall, but were resolved that some good should come out of the
evil, and to see it in their day and generation.

The musical element of Topsfield, which has been marked by
distinguished ability for many years, is worthy of notice at this
time, in passing, and should not be forgotten. The present or-
ganization of the Topsfield Brass Band, in which now centers
the principal musical interest of the town, dates its origin a
little more than a year. We have reason to congratulate our-
selves for the delight and inspiration we have derived from
their attainments. Their first public rehearsal was at the dedi-
cation of the Town Hall, Dec. 16th, 1874; and the splendor and
completeness of their success on that occasion needs no better
description than the generous and overwhelming applause they
received from that large and appreciative audience. During the
year they have been honored by liberal patronage, and were
never more successful than at the present time. The inquiry
has often been made, how is it they have accomplished so much,
and are able to perform such difficult music so correctly, and
with such enchanting effect ? It is related of Henry Clay, that
when listening for the first time to the wonderful eloquence of

48

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

Daniel Webster, in the Senate, he turned excitedly to a Senator
and inquired, how is it, what is the meaning of this, how came
he to have such wonderful power ? The reply was, "Preparation,
Preparation, Preparation." Within the period of two years all
the members of this band, with the exception of two, bought
their instruments and began to learn the first principles of music.
From that time to the present their unswerving fidelity to the
principle of thorough preparation and practice has been the
cause of their success, and secured for them respect and ad-
miration wherever they are heard. Their "Little Cornet Player,”
Eddie Balch, is a prodigy among musicians. Being but 13 years
of age, his wonderful performances upon the comet astonish
the most brilliant artists.

As we pass from this review of the development of the people,
it is befitting that we should congratulate ourselves upon our
prosperous condition. And as we pass from the old year to the
new, the centennial, that this prosperity may be transmitted
and perpetuated, it becomes us to dedicate ourselves to the
maintenance of those virtues and principles which have secured
our present advancement.

Salem Gazette , Jan. 7, 1876.

The entertainment for the benefit of the public library, was
given, as announced, in the Town Hall, on Thursday evening of
last week, and was attended by a crowded house and crowned
with perfect success. The reading of the poems, "Over the Hill
to the Poor House,” by Miss Annie Wright, and Trowbridge’s
"Charcoal Man,” by Miss Carrie Stanwood. was finely done, and
in such a manner that they were the recipients of hearty ap-
plause. The singing by Miss Clara Todd and Mr. John Gould
was excellent. The production of "Rough Diamond,” by the
Amateur Dramatic Club, conferred much enjoyment upon those
who had the good fortune to witness its rendition, and much
honor upon the members w7ho had devoted so much time and
pains to arduous study and preparation. Amateur dramatic
performances, considered as such, are too often beneath any-
thing more by w^ay of notice than a kind wrord or two by some
friends, but amateur performances as a rule are not amenable
to critcism, and for any one to undertake such would certainly
be absurb. Occasionally, however, an entertainment is given by
amateurs that deserves more than a passing mention ; such,
indeed was that by the Topsfield Club. The drama was given
without a sign of hesitancy on the part of any performer, and
the stage, although very small, was well set, and not the least
hinderance to the action of the play was experienced. Miss

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

49

Lillie Wright’s appearance in the title role was excellent; so
completely did she "suit the action to the word,” that were
the words wanting, the idea would be conveyed by her gesture
and motions. Miss Carrie Stanwood gave a very ladylike and
effective performance of Lady Platto ; words can convey no idea
of the exquisite grace and perfect expression of her emotions
and actions. Cousin Joe was capitally done by Henry A. Pea-
body. Much can be said in praise of the acting of Sir William
Evergreen and others, even to the most insignificant part. Al-
together the entertainment was worthy of the words of praise so
generally and freely given by the audience, and while the object
was one of general interest, the untiring efforts of the Club
should be commended by all. After supper, which was fur-
nished in the lower hall, the young people indulged in dancing
until a comparatively early hour. Music was furnished by Mis-
sud’s Quadrille Band, which was excellent.

A grand social hop at the Town Hall will be given on Friday
evening, Jan. 21st. Music by Missud and Winslow’s Quadrille
Band. Tickets $1. Gallery tickets, 25 cents. Grand march
at eight o’clock.

At the residence of Benj. P. and Mary A. Adams, Tuesday
evening, there was an unusual gathering, seldom seen in our
vicinity. Nearly twenty persons were present, belonging to the
Choral Union, under the direction of John Gould, Esq., a mem-
ber of the English Opera Troupe, whose fame is known far and
wide. Miss Fannie Pierce presided at the piano, giving great
satisfaction, and was deservedly the recipient of hearty applause
several times during the evening. We would notice the solo
singing of Miss Dora Wildes, which confirmed the good impres-
sion already formed regarding her merits. The names of other
singers might be mentioned, but all did exceedingly well. The
evening’s entertainment closed with a bountiful collation, dur-
ing which Miss Emma’s canary bird "Robby,” a very fine singer,
warbled beautifully, to the admiration of all present. It was re-
gretted that some of the members of the Union we unavoidably
absent. The next sing will be at the residence of Miss Carrie
Lake. A full attendance is desired.

Salem Gazette, Jan. 14, 1876

Mr. Richard Phillips, one of the most prominent and highly
respected citizens of Topsfield, Mass., died on Tuesday last. He
was born in that town in 1808, and has always been greatly in-
terested in temperance and political affairs. He was an active
agent of the Massachusetts Total Abstinence Society, and an
earnest advocate at all times of moral suasion. He was an inti-

50

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

mate friend of the late Vice-President Wilson, of Mr. Garrison,
and others of the old Free Soil Party, and in him the poor and
oppressed at all times found a warm and zealous friend. Mr.
Phillips took great interest in the affairs of the town, and his
advice was eagerly sought and freely given to all. He was a
kind and affectionate father, an estimable citizen, and his death
will be regretted by all who have enjoyed the pleasure of his
acquaintance. He leaves a wife and two sons, George F. and
Charles A. Phillips, both members of the Boston Police Depart-
ment.

Enlisted for the War. — The following is the cast of "The Home
Guard,” to be produced Friday evening Jan. 28th in the Town
Hall by the Eureka Dramatic Co. Cast of characters : Robert
Trueworth, L. Rust; Wilder Rowell, H. H. Potter; Hoseajenks,
J. B. Poor; Hiram Jenks, I. P. Long; Crimp, E. C. Taylor; Gay-
ley Gifford, Mattie Nichols; Mrs. Trueworth, Ruth P. Lake;
Mattie Trueworth, Lizzie Perkins ; Soldiers, etc., by other mem-
bers of the Co. After the play the audience is invited to indulge
in dancing until 12 o’clock. Music by French and Winslow’s
band. Admission 25 cents, children 15 cents, doors open at 6 1-2
o’clock, performance commences at 7 1-2 o’clock. The entertain-
ment promises to be excellent and one which all would do well
to attend.

Salem Gazette Jan. 21, 1876

In the last Gazette we mentioned the death of Richard Phillips,
as given in a Boston paper. A correspondent sends us the fol-
lowing additional notice : ’'Richard Phillips, Esq., of Topsfield,
died on Monday, 18th of January, after an illness of ten weeks.
Mr. Phillips was a remarkable man, few equalling him in the
adaptation of means to ends, he maintaining that suitable ar-
rangement was necessary in every phase of life. Through this
principle, coupled with an indomitable energy, he was eminently
successful in every undertaking, whether of political, social, or
religious design. A kind father, an affectionate husband, an
attached friend, a patriotic citizen, a devoted churchman, assid-
uous in temperance and moral reform, — he has passed from us
but his life deeds remain.”

On Friday evening, Feb. 11, the "Boss Dance” of the season
will be given at the Town Hall ; music by the Portsmouth
Marine Band. Tickets to dance, $1.00 ; gallery tickets, 25 cents ;
turkey supper 50 cents.

"A Lover of the Fine Arts” writes a communication from this
town for the purpose of presenting, in what Artemus Ward
would call "a sarcastical vein,” a view of musical matters not al-

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

51

together in harmony, as we should judge, with those expressed
by another correspondent on the 19th. The allusion to the
"distinguished teachers and artists” of the town, choir singers,
et cetera, is reasonably graceful in terms, and, in print, would
no doubt be enjoyable to the writer ; but, as we have strong
fears that it might not promote the personal happiness of the
people referred to, we feel constrained to omit the communica-
ation, which is well written, and would doubtless find no lack
of local appreciation if it appeared.

Notwithstanding the unpleasant weather and uncertain walk-
ing of last Friday evening, a large and appreciative audience
gathered, in the Town Hall, to witness the rendition of "En-
listed for the War” by the Eureka Dramatic Company. The
cast was very strong, embracing all the leading members of the
company, and the play was exceedingly interesting as well as
exciting. The highest praise must be accorded to Miss Mat-
tie Nichols for her charming interpretation of "Gaylin Gifford,
the Rich Heiress.” Mr. Lorin Rust, as Robert Trueworth, a
sailor of the Union, produced a very good impression, and is to
be commended for the quietness and avoidance of exaggeration,
which marked his impersonation. Hosea Jenks, the auctioneer,
whose make was "fat,” found an excellent interpreter in the
person of Mr. J. B. Poor; Mr. Ira P. Long made a capital juven-
ile appearance as Hiram, the "dutiful son” of Hosea. Next in
point of interest was certainly Mrs. Trueworth the mother of
Robert, in which Miss Ruth P. Lake made her debut on the
stage ; Miss Perkins, as Mattie, Rob’s sister, proved her capacity
for filling that part, in most consistent keeping with her assump-
tion ; Mr. H. H. Potter showed himself an artist of considerable
power and is to be credited with a good make up, and an ex-
cellent conception of the repulsive part of the villain ; Crimp, a
colored man, was capital in appearance and action, and frequent-
ly convulsed the house with his Ethiopean tongue. After the
play the audience indulged in the prime attraction, dancing.
Music was furnished by French’s Quadrille Band and the Box-
ford brass band. The cowbell-o-grain were very good, and
when they shall have gained smoothness by repetition it will be an
enjoyable feature of an evening’s entertainment. There will be
a repetition Friday evening, Feb. 4, 1876.

The society connected with the Congregational church will
meet with Mrs. James Waters on Salem street, on Thursday
evening of this week.

The praise meeting in the M. E. church was fully attended,
Sunday evening. The singing, under the direction of Mr. John
Gould, was excellent. Salem Gazette , January 28, 1876.

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NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

The Ladies’ Society connected with the Congregational church
will meet with Mrs. David G. Perkins, on Thursday evening of
this week. All are cordially invited to attend.

The Selectmen of Topsfield call upon all who have demands
against the town to present them by Monday, Feb. 21.

Salem Gazette, Feb. 4, 1876.

At 9.45 o’clock, Sunday morning, fire was discovered in the
upper part of the house owned and occupied by Mrs. Dr. R. A.
Merriam. The fire is supposed to have originated from a piece
of wood falling from the old-fashioned open fireplace against
the wooden finish which surrounded it, and then igniting a pile
of birch bark lying close by the hearth. It was quickly extin-
guished however, with a loss of about three hundred dollars.
The alarm, sounded by the church bells, was very effectual not-
withstanding the nearness of the time to the ringing of the sec-
ond bell for church service. The people responded in a body,
and the streets presented a lively appearance for a short time.
Fully insured.

The horses, attached to Peabody Express, started from Poor’s
store, last Friday evening, and ran down Main street, and into
the yard of Mr. William Galloup. In making the turn the wag-
on struck the fence, breaking it down for a considerable distance,
and the reaction threw the horses to the ground. In falling the
off horse broke one of his hind legs, the other escaped without
any apparent injury. The horse was valued at $125.

The following was received Feb. 9th, 1876, by the Amateur Dra-
matic Club of this town through the hand of Miss Susie Gould.
Where it has been or why its publication has been suppressed
so long a time is a matter of considerable comment among the
members of the Club, but its receipt is hereby acknowledged by
et. al.

Miss Susie Gould, et. al.

The Committee of the Town Library express their thanks to
those who planned, and carried out with entire success and to
the gratification of all concerned, an Entertainment in the Town
Hall, Jan. 13, consisting of songs, readings, and a dramatic ex-
hibition, by which nearly one hundred dollars were realized for
the purchase of books. They note with great pleasure the abili-
ty, good taste and judgment, as well as the spirit of enterprise
and zeal for the public good, with which the affair was managed.

They also commend that hearty appreciation and co-operation
of the citizens generally which contributed to the satisfactory

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

53

financial result, and called into exercise much social kindliness
and good will.

S. A. Merriam,

A. McLoud,

J. Balch,

H. Balch,

J. Fitts,

Topsfield, Jan. 24, 1876.

Salem Gazette , Feb. 11, 1876.

A grand concert and dance will be given by the Germania
Band, of Boston, in the Town Hall, Wednesday evening of this
week. Solos by the celebrated cornetist Mr. Shurbruk, and
others. A caterer from Boston will serve the fancy dishes.
Turkey supper will also be served by Mrs. D. J. Carlton of this
town. Mr. Baxter P. Pike will, in his customary graceful and
gentlemanly manner, manage the dance. Admission 50 cents,
Concert begins at 7 : 30 o’clock prompt. During the Concert the
audience will be seated, and ushers will be in attendance for
that purpose.

Measles, diphtheria, and scarlet fever, have made their ap-
pearance among the children here ; but one case is reported
fatal as yet. Salem Gazette, Feb. 18, 1876.

The financial condition of this town is as follows : The treas-
urer received, during the year, $27,078.09. The amount of orders
drawn was $21,110.80, leaving a balance in the treasurer’s hands
of $5,969.29. The total town debt is $33,440, of which $8,200 is
known as the Topsfield loan. We understand, from this, that
the net balance against the town is $27,470.71. With the excep-
tion of the 7 per cent, notes held in town, all the seven per cent,
bearing notes have been paid or exchanged for others bearing a
lower rate.

The expenditures of the year amounts to $21,110.80, as follows :
Centre Schools, $793.04; South School, 346.52; North School,
359.55 ; East School, 534.70; repairs on highways, 923.73; bridges,
guard, and cesspool, 368.35 ; notes and loan paid, 8,610 ; path-
ing snow, 524.69 ; interest, 2,485.65 ; State aid, 912 ; printing,
67.99 ; abatement of taxes, 130.50 ; repairs on hall and library,
274.70; State tax, 1,120; county tax, 769.40; discount on taxes,
362.78 ; overseers’ department, 1,409.91 ; town officers, 497.85 ;
burial ground, 83 ; stocking Hood’s pond with fish, $289.86 ; mis-
cellaneous, 246.58.

The Selectmen, during the year, have tried, honestly and faith-
fully, to carry out the requirements of the town as regards ap-
propriations ; but they find the running expenses quite equal to

l Library
I Committee.

J

54

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

those of former years, notwithstanding all that is said about re-
trenchment. A good deal of money has been spent on bridges
and guards, and the question of highway repairs is one that has
created some criticism, and will perhaps receive increased at-
tention at the town meeting. A cess-pool has been put in on
Main street at a cost of $26.50. An iron gate has been added to
the old burial ground, and the library cases have been complet-
ed at a cost a little in excess of the appropriation of $100. Sev-
eral damage cases have been brought to the attention of the
town. That of Wm. Peabody, for meadow flowage caused by
obstructions at the bridge, has been settled, Topsfield and Mid-
dleton paying him $50 each.

Your correspondent, in company with others, Monday even-
ing of last week, had, through the kindness of one of our worthy
citizens, the good fortune as well as the pleasure of visiting the
singing school of Mr. Samuel S. McKenzie in City Hail — North
school-house — in the Northern district of the town. Mr. Mc-
Kenzie’s reputation as a singing master is thoroughly established,
and what can be said by anyone would avail but little. The
class was assisted by able talent from the village, among which
may be mentioned an individual known in singing circles as the
“bird. ” After singing about two hours the class broke up and
separated for their respective homes, well pleased with the good
impression left with their talented visitors. The orchestral
music was well given, and your correspondent would simply add
his congratulations to the teacher for his success, and would
commend the school to all.

A very large audience was present at the concert and dance,
last Wednesday evening, in the Town Hall, by the Germania
Band of Boston. The concert was very interesting, all the per-
formers doing their parts well. Many encores were called for
and given. The dance the young people especially enjoyed until
midnight.

A temperance rally is announced for Tuesday evening of this
week, in Union Hall, at half past seven o’clock. The Danvers
Reform Club will be present, and its members will officiate dur-
ing the meeting. It is hoped that the ladies as well as the gentle-
men of the entire town will be present, to aid and encourage this
noble work so much needed in this our state and country.

Salem Gazette, Feb. 25, 1876.

Town meeting on Tuesday of this week. There will probably
be but little change in town officers.

On Tuesday evening last, about thirty members of the Reform
Club of Danvers visited this town and held a meeting in the

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

55

vestry of the Methodist Church. Addresses were made by Bro-
thers Teed, Berry, Chick, Doherty, Rackliffe, and others. Re-
marks were made by gentlemen from this town, and over sixty
names obtained to the pledge. A Reform Club was started, and
fifteen names obtained. The meeting continued in session until
eleven o’clock, and a lively interest was manifested throughout.

There will be a dance in the Town Hall, on Friday evening of
this week, with music by Stanley & Thomas’s Quadrille Band.
People may dance for a dollar, and "look on” from the gallery
for a quarter.

Salem Gazette, Mar. 4, 1876.

The annual town meeting was held in the Town Hall. S. A.
Merriam was chosen Moderator. It was voted to raise $11,000.
The sum of $1,200 was appropriated for the support of the public
schools and $900 for repairing the highways. For repairs of the
old burial grounds $150 was provided, and Messrs. McLoud,
Merriam, Stanwood and Todd were appointed a committee to
expend it. It was also voted to accept the legacy of $5000 be-
queathed by the will of the late Miss Anna Pingree, the income
of which is to be distributed by the Overseers of the Poor, as
they deem best, to the poor outside the poorhouse. The follow-
ing officers were elected : Town Clerk, J. P. Towne ; Selectmen,
D. Bradstreet, A. H. Gould, and S. D. Hood; Assessors of Taxes,
David Clark, M. B. Perkins, S. D. Hood ; Overseers of the Poor,
J. H. Potter, I. M. Woodbury, D. Bradstreet; Fish Committee,
Samuel Ladd, C. H. Holmes, Andrew Gould, S. D. Hood, J. E.
Stanwood ; Treasurer and Collector, J. P. Gould ; School Commit-
tee for three years, D. Bradstreet, J. A. Towne ; Library Commit-
tee, S. A. Merriam ; Surveyors of Highways, D. S. Clark, S. A.
Merriam, J. L. Gould, J. A. Peterson, George F. Averill, J. A.
Towne, W. H. Kneeland, J. P. Perkins, W. P. Galloup and H. E.
Lake ; Constables, H. W. Lake, James Wilson, and R. Ward ;
Fence Viewers, W. E. Kimball, W. H. Garrett, and S. A. Merri-
am ; Surveyors of Lumber, Daniel Wiley, J. H. Potter, A. W.
Potter ; Field Drivers, H. E. Lake, D. Q. Perkins, Horace Ray,
J. B. Poor, John Janes, and Israel Ray ; Keeper of Pound, John
Janes ; Town Hall Committee, S. A. Merriam, B. P. Pike and A.
B. Richardson.

Salem Gazette, Mar. 10, 1876.

Last Sunday, at the Congregational Church, there appeared a
new choir of fifteen singers, under the direction of Mr. D. E.
Hurd. They are favored with Mrs. Mary A. Perkins, as organ-
ist and it is hoped that it will meet with an encouragement that

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NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

will insure success, and preserve internal harmony, which is
always important for church choirs. The Rev. J. H. Fitts
preached two excellent sermons on the same day, one on the
Book of Esther, which had additional interest from the fact that
the Choral Union is a at present rehearsing "Queen Esther” and
will soon give a public concert in our town.

On Wednesday evening of last week, in Town Hall, a fine
dance was had under the direction of Sidney F. Averill, John
Lynch, and Thomas Gould 2nd ; music by Upton Brothers and
Missud’s Quadrille Band. A clarinet solo by Mr. Missud, was
executed, and so was a cornet solo by Mr. Flockton.

On Thursday evening, at the residence of Misses Angie and
Ada Lamson, a fine party was given, of some fifty lads and lassies
of varying ages. A better time could not reasonably have been
asked for by those present ; who were bountifully served with
refreshments, games, and songs, which were continued to a late
hour.

Salem Gazette , Mar. 24, 1876.

The report of the committee on the Town Library shows the
present encouraging status of that institution. The committee
consists of Messrs. S. A. Merriam, A. McLoud, J. H. Fitts, J. Al-
len, and H. Balch. Soon after the organization of the committee,
they made earnest efforts to collect the books in town belonging
to the various organizations that had at one time or another had
existence. They obtained from the remains of the old "Athen-
aeum” and Social Libraries, 128 volumes, and 39 were selected
from the various school libraries. The Ladies’ Society voted to
deposit their books, amounting to 268, and the Agricultural Lib-
rary Association turned over their valuable collection of 85 vol-
umes. Starting with these 520 volumes as a basis, subscriptions
were solicited, and $542.50 were contributed by individuals,
while the various entertainments, during the year in aid of the
library realized $188.77, and $30.75 were paid in fines and for
catalogues ; $762.02 placed at the disposal of the committee.
Five hundred and three books have been purchased, two hun-
dred and thirty-three have been presented during the year, mak-
ing twelve hundred and fifty-six now on the shelves of the lib-
rary. Only two books have been lost. Two hundred and forty-
three cards have been issued. Seven thousand and seven hun-
dred books have been delivered. An unexpended balance of
$61.48 remains in the hands of the committee.

From the annual report of the School Committee, it would ap-
pear that there is good cause of complaint in the matter of the
unequal distribution of scholars in the respective schools. Some-

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

57

times the South School has been reduced to 17, because some of
the families who live in the southern part of the town send their
children to a Danvers school, and some who live in the neigh-
borhood of Mr. Floyd send theirs to the Centre. The East School,
also, has only from 12 to 16 scholars, the people of one neighbor-
hood belonging naturally to the East, sending their children to
the Centre. In recording the general progress of the schools
during the year, the Committee say they "have no account to
give of a single teacher who has proved incompetent to manage
and instruct the school in charge, or unfaithful in respect to the
work undertaken ; nor has a single school or scholar proved
mutinous or refractory, or indifferent to the end for which
schools are maintained.,,

On Sunday evening at the M. E. Church, a sacred concert was
given, under the direction of Mr. John H. Gould, the chorister
of the Methodist Church, by the Choral Union. The cantata
of Esther was presented, and it was well rendered by some
twenty-five singers, Mr. E. P. Wildes, of Georgetown, presiding
at the organ with his accustomed excellence. There was a
large and appreciative audience, and it is much desired that the
concert may be reported at some future time, on a larger scale
and with the singers dressed in costume.

On Fast evening a good time is expected in our Town Hall,
for an admission of only twenty-five cents. It may be the last
of the season it is desired that there be a full house.

Last Sunday’s session of the Sabbath school connected with
the Congregational Church, was the fullest that the Superintend-
ent has had occasion to record for one year. There being (133)
one hundred and thirty-three teachers and scholars.

The Reform Club holds its meetings in Union Hall every Tues-
day evening, which are very fully attended. It is reported to
be in a flourishing condition, officered by the following gentle-
men: President, Charles Carmody; Vice Presidents, Jackson
Phillips, Charles Lee, and Melvin W. Gould ; Sec. William Per-
kins, Sr.; Financial Sec., Wellington Donaldson; Treas. James
Conley.

Rev. Mr. Fitts, pastor of the Congregational Church, will
speak on the History of Topsfield previous to the 19th of April
1776, on Fast Day in the Church at the usual time of Sunday
service, 10 1-2 o’clock.

Salem Gazette Apr. 7, 1876

Topsfield a Hundred Years Ago.— The exercises on Fast
day at the Congregational Church were of unusual interest.
The subject of the discourse, by the Rev. Mr. Fitts, was the

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NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

history of Topsfield preceding the Revolution, having reference
mainly to the action and feeling of the citizens of the town on
account of the oppression of crown and parliament upon the
American colonies. By the record of the town meetings, held
as far back as 1773, it appears, from resolutions adopted and
committees chosen to meet in convention with other towns, that
Topsfield bore well her part in remonstrating against the op-
pressions of the crown, in petitioning for redress, and also in
thorough preparation to bear her part, if need be, in a revolution
of the government. As befitting the centennial feeling which
prevails at the present time, to commemorate the day of the na-
tion’s birth, incidents connected with the preparation for that
event in its very conception are of true value and interest.

It appears that as far back as April 1773, the authorities of the
town of Topsfield received a communication from the committee
of correspondence of the town of Boston, desiring the citizens
to convene together and express their feeling and opinion in re-
gard to the infringements of parliament upon the rights of the
colonies, and of this province in particular. In reply to said
paper, the following is a record of the acts and resolutions passed
by the citizens of Topsfield, in town meeting assembled, called
by due warrant, April 26, 1773 : "The paper from the committee
being read, a committee was then chosen to consider and report
what they thought was proper under the circumstances.” The
meeting then adjourned to the 8th of June, a record of which is
as follows : "The town took under consideration a letter, a pam-
phlet, and other papers accompanying the same, sent to this
town by a committee of correspondence of the town of Boston,
containing a list of the rights of the colonies, and of this province
in particular ; also a list of the infringements and violations of
those rights for the consideration of this town. The town being
met together, the letter, pamphlet, and other papers, being read
and duly considered, the committee then reported the following
draft in answer : "That it is the opinion of this town that the in-
habitants of the town of Boston have truly and justly stated the
rights of the colonies, and of this province in particular, as, —
first, their natural rights as men. Secondly, their rights as sub-
jects by the constitution ; all which rights, in the opinion of this
town, the colonies in general and the inhabitants of this province
in particular, are and forever ought to be, truly and justly en-
titled to, unless by their own act they forfeit them. It is also
the opinion of this town that the infringements and violations
made on those rights are truly and rightly stated, and that if
such violations and infringements are still continued in, it will

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

59

prove the ruin of this province, if not the whole continent of
America, and we fear the kingdom of Great Britain too. And
we look upon it the duty of this, and of every town in this pro-
vince, in a legal way, to use our and their utmost endeavors to
prevent the executionof any and all unconstitutional act or acts
that has been or that may hereafter be made to deprive us of
any of our just rights or liberty, or take away our property from
us without our consent ; and that this town in particular will be
ready at all times to join with their brethren in any legal way
and manner to defend the life and person of his majesty, and the
lives of our brethren his majesty’s loyal subjects, and in the
same way to preserve and defend our own lawful rights, liberties,
and property, even to the last extremity.” The town voted to
accept the above report, by a great majority.

We honor and revere the men of the Revolution for their
bravery in the hour of battle. But their courage dates back to
the principles which inspired them — the preparation for the
coming event. The character of the above resolutions, for abil-
ity, strength, and purpose of action, under the circumstances,
speak for themselves. But be it remembered, the education of
the men who framed those resolutions was derived mainly from
the Bible and the spelling book. In the absence of schools and
books, men thought and reasoned. What they said was original.
What they did was the result of the inspiration of their minds,
which came to them by reflection and deliberation. Such were
the men who, in the language of the immortal Lincoln, "brought
forth upon this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty,
and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.”

For a long time previous to the battle of Lexington, the people
of Topsfield put themselves in readiness for any emergency.
Every able-bodied man volunteered a military enrollment and
assembled for drill once a week or fortnight. When the alarm
came that they were needed at Lexington and Concord, every
man went to the field of action armed and equipped. The whole
number of the inhabitants (white people) of Topsfield, by the
census of 1776, was 678. Yet the records show that from this
small population, two companies, armed and equipped, marched
for Lexington on the memorable 19th of April, 1775 — one com-
pany, under Capt. Joseph Gould, numbering 62, and one company,
under Capt. Stephen Perkins, numbering 47 ; making in all 109.
These men at this time were not allured by the delusion that
they were to meet a foe that could be easily vanquished. But
it was the invincible regulars of the British army with whom
they had to contend, who had retreated from before no enemy

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NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

on the face of the earth. But the record of the result of the
battles of Lexington and Concord show that this was to be their
first experience in that direction. Mr. Fitts, in his discourse,
related many facts regarding the action of the citizens of Tops-
field, in anticipation of the Revolution. These papers and docu-
ments have cost him much time and labor to procure, for which
there is due him the grateful thanks of the people. We hope
these papers will be preserved for the benefit of future genera-
tions. It is probable that the neighboring towns in this vicinity
received a letter from the committee of correspondence of the
town of Boston at the same time, and similar to the one sent to
Topsfield in April, 1773. And it would be interesting to learn
the feelings of the people on the subject at that time, and also
what action was taken by other towns ; an account of which we
hope may appear through the columns of this paper. It is to be
regretted that the letter above referred to, from the committee
of the town of Boston, does not appear among the records of
Topsfield, as this would be of great value could it be procured.

Malcolm McLoud was admitted to the Bar by the District
Court, last Thursday. He left for Boston, Friday, taking a sit-
uation with a prominent law firm in that place. — Marietta Reg-
ister, Washington Co., Ohio.

At a meeting of the members of the Congregational Parish, in
Topsfield, March 28, 1876, the following preamble and resolutions
were, by vote, adopted : Whereas, This Parish has met with a
severe loss in the death of Mr. Benjamin P. Adams, Resolved,
That we deeply regret his removal which has deprived this so-
ciety of a worthy member, and an able and active officer. Re-
solved that we shall retain a grateful recollection of one, who
has been for so many years, identified with the interests of this
parish, and would earnestly recommend his generosity in con-
tributing to the support of the ministry as a noble example to all.

The entertainment given by the Eureka Dramatic Company
in the Town Hall, Fast evening, was attended by a very large
audience and a very satisfactory sum was realized. The Drama
"One Hundred Years Ago” was well presented and the charact-
ers were well sustained. At the conclusion of the play the aud-
ience indulged in dancing till midnight.

Mr. John H. Potter is building a story and a half pitch-roof
dwelling house, in Central street, on one of the Peabody lots.

Mr. John Bailey is putting-up a building on Main street.

Salem Gazette, April 13, 1876.

The Fountain Lodge of Odd Fellows, of this place, entertained
members of the Agawam Lodge of Ipswich, as their guests, last

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

61

Thursday evening. After the regular business meeting of the
lodge, in the lodge room, they adjourned to Mr. Carlton’s, where
an excellent supper was served upon the European plan.

A number of citizens responded, with shovels and pick-axes,
Monday of last week, to the call of the committee on improve-
ment of the cemetery near Mr. Todd’s, and made very fair pro-
gress in improving the sadly neglected grounds.

Salem Gazette, Apr . 21, 1876.

A warrant for a special town meeting, Friday, fifth of May, is
out, comprising six articles, viz. : to see what action the town
will take in regard to the time of the payment of taxes, and the
discount and interest on the same ; to see if the town will cause
the road, leading from the turnpike, near the house of Ira Porter,
to the road leading from the Dry Bridge to Ipswich, to be wide-
ned and straightened ; to see if the town will pay David G. Per-
kins for damage to wagon and harness, near to the house of Capt.
Isaac Morgan ; to see if the town will pay David P. Perkins for
damage caused by the overflow of water at the bridge west of
his barn ; to see what action the town will take in relation to a
demand of F. C. Frame for damage and inconvenience in not
removing the snow that fell April 7th, 1876, in proper time, from
the highway leading to his house.

The spring term of the Centre School will begin Monday,
May 8th.

An accident happened last Thursday afternoon, about 5:30
o’clock, by the running away of the team belonging to Mr.
Thomas W. Pierce, which, although not so serious as it might
have been, stirs the people with indignation against the little
snapping cur that caused it — so worthless is he compared with
the life and property he so much endangered. Mr. Pierce’s
carriage was being driven to the depot, to meet the 5.40 train
from Boston, and when nearly opposite Mr. A. H. Gould’s resi-
dence, a little white dog, belonging to Mr. Gould, came over the
wall and up to the horses, barking furiously. So suddenly did
he appear that the coachman hardly recovered himself before
the horses dashed into the gutter, throwing him to the ground,
and leaving Miss Hoyt, the only lady occupant, a niece of Mr.
P.’s, alone in the carriage. The horses kept to the gutter, and so
closely did they hug the wall that the carriage overturned and
fell upon Miss Hoyt, striking her to the ground, and injuring
her about the head and shoulders, then, being freed from the
carriage and cleared of a part of their harnesses, they ran up
Main street, into the yard of Mr. D. J. Carlton, knocking down
a horse, standing by the stable, belonging to Mr. George Warner,

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NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

of Ipswich. In striking him the spreader, which was still at-
tached to one of the horses, was thrust into its breast, cutting
a deep and long gash from which the blood flowed quite freely ;
the other horse, however, was more fortunate, and escaped
without a scratch. The carriage is somewhat shatteredand the
harnesses are broken and torn apart in many places.

Salem Gazette, Apr . 28, 1876.

Mr. Samuel Todd was chosen moderator at the special town
meeting, last Friday. In regard to the payment of taxes, and
the discount and interest on the same, it was voted that they be
the same as last year. It was also voted to refer the whole sub-
ject of widening and straightening roads to the selectmen, and
that they report at the next town meeting. The demand for
damages by David G. Perkins was passed over. Messrs. David
P. Perkins and Frank Frame were each awarded $5.00 the form-
er for damage by the overflow of water, and the latter for dam-
age and inconvenience from the non-removal of the snow that
fell April 7th, 1876, in proper time from the highway leading to
his house.

Mr. D. E. Hurd and Chas. Perkins, were chosen to serve on
the grand jury, and Geo. A. Towne and B. P. Adams, on the
petit jury of the Circuit Court, to be holden in Boston, May 15,
1876.

Malcolm McLoud, Esq., filled the position of organist at the
Congregational Church, last Sunday, very acceptably.

A few individuals, moved doubtles, by the centennial spirit,
have transplanted quite a number of shade trees on the common.
There is room for many more. Salem Gazette, May 5, 1876.

The first public temperance meeting, under the auspices of
the Topsfield Reform Club, was held in the Town Hall last Tues-
day evening, Charles Carmody presiding. The hall was fairly
filled, delegations from several clubs, of neighboring towns, that
have recently been organized, being present. Shortly after 8
o’clock the exercises were commenced. Prayer was offered by
Rev. Mr. Meredith, of the M. E. Church, when vocal selections
were given by members of the choral union, under the direction
of Mr. John Gould. Mr. Carmody, in making the introductory re-
marks, welcomed all, in behalf of the Reform Club, to this their
first public meeting, as they had come together for social con-
verse and to learn what progress had been made in other towns ;
and he regretted very much that he was obliged to announce the
absence of Mr. Crawford, president of the Middleton Reform
Club, of whom he expected considerable. But other gifted ora-

NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

63

tors were present from that town, and made fitting remarks on
the great subject of temperance, which, in a measure, compen-
sated for his absence. Mr. Geo. Brown of Rowley was next in-
troduced, and made a telling speech, speaking at some length
on the flourishing condition of the Club which he represented,
all of which was very interesting. In the course of his remarks,
he took occasion to express his surprise at the small number of
persons present, and also at the smallness of our Reform Club ;
but notwithstanding all this, he said, Topsfield might outdo
Rowley in the great and important work of extirpating the
demon Alcohol from our land.

Mr. Henderson of the Topsfield Reform Club, responded to a
call, and said, that for him to define and point out the difference
between temperance and drunkenness would take to much
time, which he thought he could occupy to a better advantage
by relating his own most terrible experience with the rum bottle.
Mr. Henderson is a reformed man of many years, and rarely do
we hear of such a thorough reformation in any one as we do in
his case, which cannot fail to be of interest to everyone.

Deacon A. S. Peabody then added a few words of cheer and
encouragement for the constant and triumphant success of the
present movement, and wished every one engaged in this good
work prosperity and happiness.

Charles H. Holmes, Esq., was then called upon. After speak-
ing briefly on the subject of temperance, he took up that of total
abstinence, which, he said, he firmly believed should be enforced
in the club-room, if not in the present movement ; but this ex-
pressed opinion was not generally accepted, and an unpleasant-
ness of a hostile nature ensued.

The Topsfield Reform Club is in a comparatively good con-
dition, and its membership is made up principally of reformed
men. Its needs are many, and there is a vast field for improve-
ment. It acknowledges the receipt of furniture, etc. etc. from
the citizens, for which it returns most hearty thanks.

Salem Gazette, June 9, 1876.

The Colorado potato beetle has arrived, and already its dep-
redations are visible in many a field and garden.

Fourth of July will be observed in the customary way here,
no especial measure having been, as yet undertaken towards
its celebration.

There will be a public temperance meeting on the Common,
Tuesday evening, under the auspices of the Reform Club.

A petition is being extensively circulated, requesting the se-
lectmen to move the Band stand from the Common to Academy
Hill, where the music can be heard much better.

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NEWSPAPER ITEMS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

Building prospects seem to be very good here ; no less than
seven houses are being constructed.

Mr. John Bailey’s shoe factory has started up again with every
prospect of a long run.

Salem Gazette, June 23, 1876.

The Public Library is still in a flourishing condition and is
evidently accomplishing a good work. A donation has recently
been made by Mrs. Blake of Boston, a former benefactress, in
the shape of many valuable books. Our rich friends, it seems,
have also remembered us and we are promised a collection hav-
ing considerable value.

Dr. Wm. Kingsford, an eminent physician and surgeon, has
established his office with Mr. D. J. Carlton on Main street.
Your correspondent takes great pleasure in commending him to
all those who desire special attention to the treatment and cure
of all diseases of the lungs, heart, eyes, cancers, and humors of
all kinds. Consultation free. Salem Gazette, July 14, 1876.

It is a matter that is publicly regretted that the striking appar-
atus of the town clock is not in running order, and if the one
whose duty it is should remedy the matter he would confer a
great benefit on his townspeople.

The shower which passed over this place last Tuesday night,
was the severest for several seasons. The lightning struck in
at least a dozen different places. At Mr. John Smith’s it struck
an apple tree under which lay a straw hat, which was entirely con-
sumed. At Mr. Jacob Kinsman’s, the Huntington place, it struck
a large elm tree in front of the house and a walnut tree behind it.

Dr. Kingsford will occupy his office in Mr. Carlton’s only on
Fridays, and not the whole season, as previously stated.

The Topsfield Brass Band gave their first open air concert
last Tuesday evening.

Almost every township in Massachusetts, in fact New England,
has tried its prettiest to raise a man who '"can look down with
perpendicular contempt” on our Esquire. In every State he has
a rival, and they are still growing. Quite recently Ipswich has
put in its claim for the tallest man, but it will be obliged to step
back a half inch instead of ahead, for the Esquire is still growing
— a fact which has been evidently overlooked by all — and now
this morning stands 6 feet 8 inches in his stockings, which fact
it would be well for all tall men to record, and not boast until
they have outgrown the Esquire, by a fractional part of an inch,
at least. Salem Gazette, July 21, 1876.

( To be continued)

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

By Rev. James H. Fitts

The number of white people in the town of Topsfield taken
on the ninth of June, A. D. 1776 amounted to 733. At the same
time the number of negroes and mulattoes was 25 ; and there
were 50 white people and negroes that belonged to other towns,
but resident in Topsfield, who were numbered at the same time,
by order of the General Court. — Topsfield Town Records.

By the return of the assessors in the year 1764, the town
had houses, 105 ; families, 130 ; males under 16 years, 160 ; males
above 16 years, 184 ; females under 16 years, 141 ; females above
16 years, 219. The number of white people of Topsfield in the
year 1764, was 704 ; negroes, 16.

Valuation in 1768 £1434 — 6 — 0

Valuation in 1761 1598 — 1 — 0

The story of Topsfield’s struggle to throw off the royal yoke
begins with the matter of compensation to the sufferers in the
Boston riots. Her action is recorded in the months of August,
September and October 1766, in giving instruction to Capt. Sam-
uel Smith, her representative to the General Court.

The town professed not to know the cause of the disturbance
and loss ; but conceded that if the petitioners had "suffered by
being actually engaged for the good of his majesties subjects in
this province, they ought to have a proper allowance made out
of the province treasury.” Otherwise not. The benignity of
their "gracious sovereign” in repealing the Stamp Act, is ac-
knowledged with loyal gratitude. "We look upon it our great-
est honor as well as duty always to copy after such wise, good
and just examples; — in consideration whereof, in case the said
sufferers shall make application for it, we are heartily willing to
give them as much as our ability and low circumstances will ad-
mit of, provided we may do it either by subscription or by con-
tribution, as in calamitous accidents by fire.” Thirty-one days
after, when the measure of remuneration for the sufferers and
of pardon for the offenders, was pending in the General Court,
the town boldly voted not to concur in the proposition. Her
patriot freeholders now thought they understood the subject.

(65)

66

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Such was the first action of Topsfield respecting the national
issues then pending. She early and nobly took her stand in
independent opposition to the exactions of parliament, the in-
junction of the governor, and even the legislation of the state.

Again the patriotic interest of Topsfield showed itself in send-
ing her delegate to the convention held at Faneuil Hall on Sept.
22, 1768.

Now observe how Topsfield stood affected by the grievances
under which the colonies were laboring. Her records for May

1, and June 11, 1770, tell the eloquent story. The voters pro-
nounce the Revenue Act unconstitutional, unreasonable, and
unjust, imposed without their consent. They declare their just
rights invaded by a military force quartered in the metropolis
to enforce compliance. They denounce the Boston massacre
as the murder of unarmed men. To obtain redress of these
grievances they agree not to buy, sell or use any goods imported
from England, to promote home manufactures, and to make
their own clothing. These measures they present to the inhab-
itants of the town for their adoption.

A century ago, the town meetings of Massachusetts were nur-
series of independence. They were censured by parliament as
the hot-beds of treason and rebellion. The town of Boston, Nov.

2, 1772, chose a "committee of correspondence” consisting of
twenty-one persons. This committee, until it was superseded,
in a measure, by the "committee of safety,” was the executive
of the popular party of Boston, and indeed virtually, of the whole
province. Other towns also had their committees of correspond-
ence.

At a meeting in Faneuil Hall, Nov. 20, 1772, the Boston com-
mittee made a very important report. The part presented by
Samuel Adams, occupied twelve pages of a pamphlet entitled,
"A Statement of the Rights of the Colonists and of this Province
in particular.” The claim specified three points. "Rights as
men, as Christians, and as Subjects.” Joseph Warren, under
ten heads, covering sixteen pages, presented "A List of the In-
fringements and Violations of these Rights.” Benjamin Church
occupied six pages with "A Letter of Correspondence with the
other Towns.” Six hundred copies of the pamphlet were print-
ed and sent to the selectmen of each town, and to prominent
Whigs in other colonies. Tories termed this measure "the source
of the rebellion.” Bancroft says, "it included the whole rebellion.”

On the 18th of May 1773, a meeting was held in Topsfield to
consider and reply to this letter from Boston. On June 8, 1773,
the town thanks the inhabitants of Boston for their early vigil-

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

67

ance in the public cause, and heartily responds to the principles
and sentiments advanced. It re-states the conviction that the
rights of the colonies and the infringments of those rights are
truly and justly stated. It re-argues the opinion that the colo-
nies are forever entitled to these rights, "unless by their own
act they forfeit them; ” and that "if such violations and infring-
ments are still continued in, it will prove the ruin of this province
if not the whole continent of America, and we fear, the kingdom
of Great Brittain too.” To prevent the execution of all uncon-
stitutional measures to take away our liberties or property with-
out our consent, it is affirmed that "this town in particular will be
ready, at all times, to join with their brethren in any legal way
and manner, to defend the life and person of his majesty, and
the lives of our brethren his majesty s loyal subjects, and in the
same way to preserve and defend our own lawful rights, liberties
and property, even to the last extremity.” We are told the town
adopted this measure "by a great majority.” At the same meet-
ing a committee of correspondence was chosen and the town
clerk instructed to transmit an authenticated copy of the action
to Boston.

The celebrated "Boston Tea Party” occurred Dec. 16, 1773 and
eleven days after a warrant was issued to the people of Tops-
field to meet and consult respecting this matter. A committee
was chosen in legal town meeting, Jan. 6, 1774 ; and their full
and very decided report was adopted nem con., Jan. 20, 1774.
They say the purchase and consumption of such quantities of
tea, even without a duty, would tend to impoverish and inslave
us. Therefore we will not buy nor sell it, until the duty is re-
moved. We highly approve of the action of Boston in regard
to their reception of the East India Company’s tea. We will
join them in resisting the importation of tea with a tax on it,
and will esteem all such importers as enemies to their country.
A copy of this action went on to the town records, and another
attested copy was forwarded to the Boston committee of corres-
pondence.

The convention held at Ipswich Sept. 6, 1774 was suggested
by the selectmen of Marblehead. Topsfield, not having the fear
of the royal governor before their eyes, with Salem readily re-
sponded. Samuel Smith, Enos Knight, and John Gould were
chosen delegates, Aug. 29, and on Oct. 11 drew pay "for their
attendance at the congress at Ipswich.” Delegates from every
town in Essex county, to the number of sixty-eight, met at Ips-
wich on the 6 and 7 of Sept. Resolutions were passed, protest-
ing with equal severity against the oppressive acts of parliament,

68

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

the arbitrary conduct of ministers, and the hostile operations of
Governor Gage. These resolutions were immediately forwarded
to the ''Grand American Congress/’ then sitting at Philadelphia.

The first provincial congress of Massachusetts Oct. 11, 1774,
organized by raising John Hancock to the presidency, and elect-
ing Benjamin Lincoln secretary. It adjourned Oct. 14th to meet
at Cambridge the following Monday. It met at Cambridge Oct.
17th and adjourned Oct. 29th. Convened again at Cambridge
Nov. 23 and dissolved Dec. 10th. Progress toward practical in-
dependence was now sure and speedy. Many towns that neg-
lected to send delegates to Salem, now chose delegates to Con-
cord or Cambridge. This was the case with Topsfield.

On Oct. 11, 1774, Topsfield sent her representative with in-
structions to the provincial congress. Representative Samuel
Smith was instructed on three points. He was to acknowledge
George the Third as rightful sovereign ; to maintain all consti-
tutional and chartered rights ; and to resist the oppressive acts
of parliament. In all this he was to be mindful of the resolutions
of the continental congress. Here, then, Topsfield, while loyal
to the British constitution and crown, on the 11th of October
1774, in voting to adhere to the rules and recommendations of
the national congress, virtually repudiated the government
of England. Loving still her ancient chartered forms of gov-
ernment, every public officer was now to be chosen by the elect-
ors of the commonwealth and to be amendable solely to his con-
stituents.

The leaders on both sides now expected war. But it did not
find the colonists wholly unprepared. During the summer of
1774, there was no general muster, but the drum and fife were
heard in every hamlet. There were hostile preparations, the
clang of arms, and a general rising of the people. As the con-
flict drew on, its influence entered into happy homes, and made
the father thoughtful, taciturn, solemn ; and the mother’s heart
throbbed with intensest anxiety. The Massachusetts patriots
were exceedingly anxious that when an open conflict did take
place, the British troops should be clearly the aggressors.

The provincial congress at Cambridge, Oct. 26th, adopted a
plan for collecting military stores and for enroling and muster-
ing the militia, and created the "committee of safety” as an ex-
ecutive authority. In November it further authorized the gath-
ering of war supplies at Concord and Worcester, and provided
for organizing, mustering and calling out the militia when cir-
cumstances should make it necessary.

There were several classes of soldiers. The "training band”

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

69

was constituted of all able-bodied male persons from 16 to 50
years old, with few exceptions. The "alarm list” included all
others up to the age of 70. The fourth part of thes£ were to be
enlisted as "minute-men” to hold themselves ready to march at
a minute’s notice. Each officer and private was to equip him-
self with a good firearm, cartridge-box, and knapsack.

The minute-men met weekly for military drill, the towns pay-
ing the expense. After the drill of the day, they would repair
to the meeting house to hear a political sermon, or to the town-
house to partake of an entertainment provided by the citizens.
At both the meeting house by the preacher, and at the town
house by some ardent "son of liberty,” they were incited to fight
bravely for God and their country. Thus an army was formed
ready at a minute’s notice to march to the field. Citizens of
every calling appeared in the ranks. To be a private was re-
garded as an honor ; to be chosen an officer was a mark of the
highest distinction.

The citizens of Topsfield liable to do military duty, assembled
on Monday Dec. 5, 1774, agreeable to the advice of the provincial
congress, chose Joseph Gould, captain, and adjourned to the next
day. On Tuesday, the Topsfield militia were formed into
two companies with a full corps of officers. Of the first comp-
any, Joseph Gould was captain, Samuel Cummings, lieutenant,
Thomas Moore, ensign. Of the second company, Stephen Per-
kins was captain, Solomon Dodge, lieutenant, David Perkins,
ensign.*

What has been called the "opening ball of the Revolution”
occurred at Portsmouth, N. H. I refer to the seizure by armed
patriots of Fort William and Mary in Piscataqua harbor, on
Wednesday, Dec. 14th 1774. Paul Revere had ridden express from

* "At a meeting of the Alarm List and Training Band of the Foot Company of
Topsfield, on the 5th of December, 1774, to choose officers for said company,
(agreeable to the advice of the Provincial Congress) voted, Mr. Stephen Perkins,
chairman.

Voted Mr. Joseph Gould, Captain. The day being spent, a motion was made
for said meeting to be adjourned to the next morning, 9 o’clock ; the question
was put, and passed in the affirmative, and accordingly said meeting was ad-
journed to said time.

December 6. Said Alarm List and Training Band met according to adjournment.
A motion was made for said company to be divided into two distinct companies ;
the question was put, and accordingly they were divided into two distinct com-
panies ; the first company voted Mr. Joseph Gould, Captain ; Mr. Samuel Cum-
mings, Lieut. ; Mr. Thomas Moore, Ensign ; and all other officers by a great
majority. The second company voted Mr. Stephen Perkins, Captain ; Mr. Solo-
mon Dodge, Lieutenant ; Mr. David Perkins, Ensign ; and all other officers by a
great majority.”

Salem Gazette ; Jan. 13, 1875.

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Boston to John Langdon and the "sons of liberty" at Portsmouth.
He brought the news that a detachment of British soldiers had
been ordered from Castle William to secure Fort William and
Mary. So on the night of the 14th of Dec., John Sullivan of
Durham, and Thomas Pickering of Portsmouth, with their com-
patriots to the number of 400, rowed down the harbor in scows
and "gundalos,” surprised the garrison of five soldiers with John
Cochran their commander, and brought away 97 casks of pow-
der, a quantity of shot, 60 stand of arms and 16 small pieces of
artillery. They were none too scon in their bold adventure. A
day or two after, two British ships of war arrived in the harbor,
with a detachment of troops which took possession of the fort
and dismantled it.

Topsfield was represented in this expedition by Dr. Nathaniel
Peabody, a native of the town, then residing at Plaistow, N. H.
He held at the time the position of Lt. Col. of the 7th regiment
of N. H. militia. For his offence he was turned out of office by
John Wentworth, the royal governor.*

Besides her two militia companies, Topsfield endeavored, with
the opening of the new year, to enlist a company of minute-men
for the service. The town voted, Jan. 19, 1776, "to comply with
the recommendation of the provincial congress respecting the
enlistment of minute-men." The same day, a committee of sev-
en persons was appointed to fix upon the time of drill and the
compensation for such soldiers. The committee reported, Jan.

26, but no further action was taken at the time.

The town passed votes, March 7th and Apr. 11th providing
for the enlistment, drill and pay of minute-men. They were to
equip themselves, and to drill two half-days every week, and to
draw monthly the pay of one shilling for each half-day’s service.

The vote on Mar. 7th was as follows : "Voted to give Incour-
agement to such minit men as Shall inlist themselves agreeable
to ye Recommendation of the Provincial Congress.

"Voted that ye incouragement shall be ye same as was reported
to be by a former Town meeting, which is as followeth, viz.
That when so many able bodyd men have inlisted themselves as
amounts to the number of one quarter part of the Training band,
to do Duty agreeable to said Recommendation ; and every able
bodyd man that inlists himself, shall be injoy nd to acquip him-
self with arms and all other things, agreeable to said Recom-

*Dr. Nathaniel Peabody was born at Topsfield, Mass., Mar. 1, 1741, son of Dr.
Jacob Peabody and of Susanna, daughter of Rev. John Rogers of Boxford. He
filled many places of trust in the civil and military affairs of N. H. and died June

27, 1823, in the 83rd year of his age.

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

71

mendation, and shall be injoynd to attend military Duty two half
Days every week During the Town’s pleasure; and Shall be
paid one Shilling for each half-Day the Town continues them in
said Service — the pay shall not exceed two half-Days in each
week ; and the Cap1 who shall have the Command of such men
as inlist themselves into said service, Shall at the end of every
month, give a certificate to the Selectmen of how many half-
Days each soldier has attended Duty as aforesaid ; and the select-
men shall give orders for the Town Treasurer to pay each of them
one Shilling for every half-Day they have spent as afore said.”

On April 11th. "Voted that such of the inlisted minit men as
have attended duty according to a vote passed at a Town meet-
ing ye Seventh of March last, and such of said minit men as
shall attend duty two half-days in each week, shall each be paid
one shilling for each half-day During the Towns pleasure, not-
withstanding there is not one quarter part of ye Training band
inlisted.”

1776. Mar. 26. "Mr. Jeremiah Averill, Town Treasurer was
ordered to pay to the following persons the sums sett against
each of their names, Being for their service as minute men
agreable to the Town vote, viz.

To Henry Bradstreet

0-6-0

To Joshua Towne Jur

0-8-0

To Benja Gould

0-8-0

To Benja Brown

0-6-0

To Dudley Bixby

0-7-0

To Joseph Symonds

0-2-0

To Ezra Perkins

0-2-0

1-19-0’

The Topsfield companies belonged to the third regiment of
Essex County militia, commanded by Col. John Baker of Ipswich.
Mr. Cleaveland in his "Bi-centennial Address” says, —"Many,
probably most of the Topsfield Men, proved their sincerity, and
showed their courage, by mingling with the brave yeomanry of
Essex and of Middlesex in the great transactions of the 19th of
April . . . The news from Lexington, spreading like wildfire in
every direction, reached this place at about ten o’clock in the
forenoon. The farmers were busy in their fields ; but there was
no hesitation. The plough was stayed in mid-furrow, and with-
in an hour, many were on their way to the scene of the conflict.
Joseph Gould commanded one of the Topsfield companies.
When and where, exactly, they came up with the retreating
enemy, I do not know. Somewhere, they found them, and from
behind a low wall or dyke, began their murderous fire. But

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

their heroic captain disdained such shelter. He thought it, per-
haps undignified for an officer to lie down. So he stood bolt
upright — gave his orders — faced the enemy and the bullets, and,
as good luck would have it, came off unhurt.”

The officers of the first Topsfield company were Captain
Joseph Gould, Lieutenant Samuel Cummings, Ensign Thomas
Moore; Sergeants: Nehemiah Herrick, John Peabody, David
Town, Jr., Thomas Porter; Corporals: Cornelius Balch, Ebenezer
King, Benjamin Gould ; Drummer Elijah Perkins. The company
mustered fifty-nine non-commissioned officers and privates ; in
all, sixty-two men. Most of them were in the service at this
time five days, and they marched sixty miles to and from home.
Capt. Gould received £1. 6. 5. The privates received 12s. 1 3-4d.

Mr. Cleaveland says of the captain of the second Topsfield
company : " At the time of the Revolution, there was probably
no man here, more prominent or efficient, than Capt. Stephen
Perkins, a descendant of the Rev. William Perkins, so distin-
guished in the early annals of the town.”

The other officers of Captain Perkins’ company were Lieuten-
ant Solomon Dodge, Second Lieutenant David Perkins; Ser-
geants: Jacob Kimball, Nathaniel Dorman, Thomas Cummings ;
Corporals: Benjamin Hobbs, Ezra Perkins, Josiah Lamson. This
company mustered thirty-seven privates ; in all, forty-seven men.
They were in the service two and one-half days ; and travelled
sixty miles to and from home. Captain Perkins received for
time and travel £1. 2. 3-4.

Capt. Jacob Gould who was born in Topsfield and lived in the
edge of Boxford, "commanded a company at Lexington.” Capt.
Wm. Perley’s company of minute-men distinguished itself on
that day. It seems to have contained quite a number of Tops-
field men. Richard Hood was ploughing in the corn-field with
his father John and brother Samuel, that forenoon. He started
at once for the field of action. A similar story is told of Asa
Gould, who left his hoe and started in his shirt-sleeves. Daniel
Bixby used to tell fifty years after, how the news reached him
when in his field on what afterward became known as the "Do-
nation farm.” He ran to the entry of his house, seized his gun
and equipments, mounted his horse and rode away for Lexington.
Benjamin Gould "saw his first service on the day of Lexington
Fight ; and to his latest hour, an honorable scar bore testimony
to his bravery on that occasion.”*

"I sprinkled my blood upon Lexington’s sod.” — Cleaveland.

*Miss Hannah F. Gould, daughter of Benjamin Gould, has beautifully em-
balmed the image and virtues of the brave and meek old soldier in "The Scar of
Lexington,” "The Veteran and the Child,” and particularly in "My Lost Father.”

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

73

Such was the mettle of the citizen soldiers, who contributed
to the mortifying defeat and severe losses of the King’s forces
on the ever-memorable 19th of April.

The minute-men who gathered around Boston, stayed only a
few days. Some remained to take part in the following cam-
paign, but most of them returned home. They were discharged
with the thanks of the provincial congress then sitting at
Watertown. Captain Perkins’ company reached home April
21st, and Captain Gould’s arrived April 23d. By this time,
General Ward became uneasy at the departure of so many men,
and enlistment for actual service commenced. On that day,
Congress resolved that a New England army of 30,000 men was
necessary, and proposed to raise 13,600 men as the proportion
of Massachusetts. The men were to be enlisted only till the
last of December - ’'eight months service.” Fifty-nine men were
to form a company, and ten companies a regiment. Those
who raised companies or regiments were to be their command-
ers. General Ward was appointed commander-in-chief and soon
received his commission.

The next day, April 24th, a third company, mostly of Topsfield
men, was organized for this service, with John Baker of Tops-
field, captain, Caleb Lampson of Ipswich, lieutenant, and Daniel
Dresser of Rowley, second lieutenant. It contained 28 men
from Topsfield, 17 from Ipswich, 6 from Beverly, 6 from Rowley,
2 from Wenham, 1 from Danvers and one from Middleton.

The third provincial congress convened at Watertown, May
31, 1775, and dissolved July 19th of the same year. Topsfield
chose Dea. John Gould as her representative, May 25th.

Col. Moses Little’s regiment had for its chaplain the Rev.
John Cleaveland of Chebacco parish in Ipswich, "a Christian
patriot of the highest stamp.” It is said that he preached all his
parish into the army, and then went himself with two brothers
and all four of his sons. Nehemiah, the youngest of these sons,
was settled as a physician in Topsfield, in 1783, where he died
Feb. 26, 1837, aged 76 years. This regiment, with John Baker’s
company of Topsfield was early stationed at the Black Horse
tavern in Menotomy, since West Cambridge, now Arlington.
Capt. Ezra Lunt marched from Newburyport with sixty men,
Wednesday, May 10th, and arrived at Cambridge, Friday, at 11
o’clock A. M. We have a letter from Corp. Ezra Perkins of Capt.
Baker’s company, written to his father David Perkins of Tops-
field, and dated at Cambridge, June 14, 1775.

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

To David Perkins.

Sir.

I Take this opertunity to inform you that I am in
good Helth, and all the rest of our Company ; and I hope that
these lines will find you so. And I would be glad If you would
Dy my thred stokins a light blu, and send them when you send
my Sherts, and fech me a fork. And I Have no nuse to rite to
you at Present, for thar is not so much Nuse Down hear as there
is with you. And I wood be glad if you would send me three
Pound and a half of Shugar and fech it Down, when you com
Down.

Ezra Perkins.

Cambrig, Jun. the 14, 1776.

To Mr. David Perkins of Topsfield.

A day still greater, and a scene more exciting than the great
transactions of the 19th of April, was near at hand. "'Conceive,
if you can, sons, daughters, grand-children and great-grand
children of those who were actors or spectators then, — imagine,
if it be possible, you who, floating calmly along the current of
our unexciting times, have never known what anxiety and ap-
prehension really are, — try, I say, to realize the sensations which
must have pervaded the entire population of this place on that
bright summer day, never to be forgotten while the world stands,
the 17th of June, 1775. The men capable of bearing arms were
mostly away — a part of the beleaguering host around Boston.
Yonder, upon Easley’s Hill, might be seen their grey -haired
fathers and mothers — their wives, and sisters, and daughters,
and young children, watching — Oh ! how earnestly — the distant
smoke-cloud, and listening with beating bosoms to that porten-
tous roar of cannon, which spoke so unequivocally of some tre-
mendous conflict.” — Cleaveland.

The Topsfield company under Capt. John Baker was at Bunk-
er Hill in Col. Moses Little’s regiment, though commissions to
the officers of this regiment were not issued till June 26th.
Moses Little of Newbury was colonel, Isaac Smith was lieuten-
ant-colonel, James Collins was major, and Stephen Jenkins was
adjutant. A return of this regiment, dated June 9, reports 400
men and on June 15, reports nine companies and 456 men with
Capt. Collins’ company in Gloucester, and Capt. Perkins as ready
to inarch from Ipswich. On June 16, the companies of Captain
Perkins, Jacob Gerrish, and Nathaniel Warner were at Menot-
omy. Capt. Ezra Lunt and probably Capt. John Baker, were de-
tached to Lechmere’s point, now East Cambridge, on guard duty.

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

75

On June 17, the officers of Little’s regiment, without waiting for
orders, left their quarters at Menotomy and Cambridge, and
tendered their services to General Ward. Colonel Little led
three of his companies to the field, in Indian file, before the action
commenced. By direction of General Putnam, they divided, part
to the redoubt, part to a cartway on the right of it, and some to
the rail fence. Captain Gerrish was stationed in the lines,
Captain Wade’s company from Ipswich and Ipswich Hamlet was
at the breastwork, and Capt. Perkins’ Newburyport company
was ordered between the breastwork and rail-fence. Of the
men from Essex County who formed Little’s regiment full 125
hasted to the aid of Prescott. The ground between the breast-
work, and rail fence was defended by these brave Essex troops
covered only by scattered trees. With resolution and deadly
aim they poured the most destructive vollies on the enemy.
Captain Wade writes, "I was at the rail fence. One of our can-
non deserted by Callender, was fired a number of times very
near me. Two men in our regiment, Halliday and Dutton of
Newburyport, fired one of the cannon three or four times and
hurrahed very loud.”

Captains Lunt and Baker did not arrive from Lechmere’s
Point till near the close of the battle. These companies were
ordered up to cover the rear of the exhausted and retreating
troops. This rear-guard did good service by their brave and
well-directed fire. They effectually kept the enemy at bay, till
the Neck was crossed and the retreat accomplished. But the
laurels gained by them were by no means bloodless. Colonel
Little’s velvet clothes were sprinkled with the blood of the
wounded and dying. His regiment lost 15 killed and 31 wound-
ed. Quite a number lost their muskets and some their coats,
for which they were reimbursed.

Mr. Cleaveland says of Sergeant Benjamin Gould, of Baker’s
company, "On the 17th of June he was one of the reinforcement
so unaccountably delayed, and which reached the Plill too late
to save the Redoubt, and in time only to join with its gallant de-
fenders in their retreat.”

The following extract from Mr. Gould’s own journal is still
more explicit. "Soon after this, (the Battle of Lexington,) I en-
listed as Sergeant in Capt. John Baker’s company, Col. Moses
Little’s regiment, and marched to Cambridge. On the 17th of
June was ordered on guard at Lechmere’s Point, Colonel Asa
Whitcomb commanding the guard. After the battle had com-
menced some time, the guard was ordered to reinforce the troops
on the Hill : but when we got on the Neck, we met them retreat-

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

ing, yet kept on till we met Gen. Putnam, (with tent on his horse
behind him,) who spoke to Col. Whitecomb, and he retreated.
While on the Neck, the enemy fired on us from the ship that
was in Charles river, and the floating batteries came up Mystic
river, within small gun-shot of us. Col. Whitcomb took me in
front of him, a little to the left. He placed me in a situation for
them to take aim at. The first shot struck the ground a little
before me, and rebounded, and as it passed, struck my musket
in my hand. The second struck the ground directly against my
feet. The third struck in the same hole and made it deeper.
I turned my eyes to the guard, and found them retreating. I
was the last man on the Neck. As I returned, I got through a
fence on my right, seeing the ground more favorable to cover
me — the ridge the Charlestown Hotel now stands on, — and when
I had gone about a rod, I saw the flash of their guns, and dropped
to the ground. The balls passed over my back, and struck a
little beyond me. I returned to the guard, and found them all
safe.”

"I sprinkled my blood upon Lexington's sod,

And Charlestown’s green height to the war drums I trod.”

Here is also an account of another of Capt. Baker’s men. "In
1775, at the age of fifteen, John Hood of Topsfield enlisted in the
army of the Revolution. June 17, 1775 he was at Bunker’s Hill,
not in the fight but on picket duty upon a marsh near by, watch-
ing an English vessel to keep her men from landing.” — Hood
Memorial.

Mr. Cleaveland says of Israel Herrick, who lived awhile in
Topsfield. "He entered the army as a lieutenant in 1745, and
was out in nineteen campaigns. In 1763 he left the service, a
major by brevet. The war of Independence again called him to
the field, and he was among the defenders of Bunker Hill.”

The Americans lost, but they won. The British gained a
victory which was worse than an ordinary defeat.

The Rev. Daniel Breck, minister of Topsfield from Nov. 17,
1779 to 1788, before his settlement had been a chaplain in the
army and was in Colonel Porter’s regiment at the unsuccessful
seige of Quebec.

The earliest municipal action of Topsfield in the year 1776
was to choose "a committee of correspondence, inspection and
safety.” Topsfield first appointed such a committee, June 8,
1773. This was the very year the measure originated in Massa-
chusetts, was suggested to Virginia and by her was recommend-
ed to the several colonies.

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

77

In Apr. 22 and 24, Topsfield chose a committee to meet com-
mittees from other towns at Ipswich to act "respecting a more
just and equal choice and representation in the General Court.”

Mr. Cleaveland says of Dea. John Gould : "He became a man
noted and useful. He represented the town at the breaking out
of the Revolution, and continued in that responsible station until
1778, when he died on his post, at Watertown, of the small-pox.”

Capt. Samuel Smith had, for many years previously, represent-
ed the town at the General Court. Deacon Gould was first
chosen representative, May 25 and again July 4, 1775. He was
re-elected May 21, 1776.

On the 10th of May, 1776, the Massachusetts House of Repre-
sentatives adopted a vote that a meeting should be held in every
town, to decide whether the inhabitants would support Congress
should it declare the Colonies independent.

How the men of Topsfield felt in regard to this matter, is
shown by their town warrant of June 11, and their votes of June
14 and 21st.

1776. June 11. Warrant.

"To see if the Inhabitants of this town agree, whether, in
Case the Honorable Congress, for the Safety of the United Col-
onies, Should declare them Independent of the Kingdom of greate
Britten, they will solemnly engage with their Lives and fortune,
to support them in this measure, and give Mr John Gould their
Representative, Such Instruction for that purpose as they shall
think proper.”

"To Choose two good and Lawfull men, in manner as jurors
are drawn out of the box to serve at the Superior Court &c., to
Serve on the jury in the Court erected to try and condemn all
vessels that shall be found infesting the sea Coasts of America,
and brought into Either of the Counties of Suffolk, Middlesex,
or Essex, to be held at Salem in said County of Essex, on Mon-
day the seventeenth day of June Instant, at the hour of ten in
the forenoon, according to venire ”

1776. June 14. "Voted that in Case the Honorable, the Con-
tinantal Congress, Shall think fit, for the Safty of the United
Colonies, to declare them Independent of the Kingdom of greate
Britten, this town do Solemnly engage to defend and support
the measure, both with their Lives and fortunes to the uttmost
of their power. Israel Clarke Jur., Cap1. Stephen Perkins, and
Solomon Dodge was chosen a committee to prepare a Draft for
Instructions for Mr John Gould, Representative of said town, for
a rule for his Conduct in the General Court, respecting the
United Colonies in America being declared Independent of the

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Kingdom of greate Britten by the Continental Congress, and to
report Said draft to the town at there next meeting.”

June 21. 'The Comtee that was chosen to draw a Draft of
Instructions for Mr John Gould, Representative of Said town &
reported the following Draft which is hereafter recorded on the
other leaf which was read and accepted and voted that Capt.
Stephen Perkins, messrs Solomon Dodge and Israel Clarke Jur
be a Committee to draw said Instructions into a fair draft, and
forward the Same to Said Representative.

The Instructions before mentioned that was voted to be given
to Mr John Gould, Representative of said town, are as followeth :

"To Mr John Gould Representative of Topsfield, Sir,

"A resolution of the Honorable House of Representatives,
Calling upon the Several Towns in this Collony to express their
minds with respect to American Independence of the Kingdom
of greate Britten, is the ocasion of our giving you Instructions,
this being the greatest question that ever Came before this town.

"A few years ago, Sir, such a question would have put us in a
greate surprise, and we apprehend would have been Treated
with the uttmost contempt. We then thought ourselve happy
in being the Subjects of the King of greate Britten, it being our
pairent State ; and we have always Looked upon it as our Duty
as well as Interest, to defend and support the honor and Dignity
of the Crown of greate Britten ; and we have alway freely done
it, both with our Lives and fortunes, counting ourselves happy
when in the strictest union and connection with our pairent
State.

"But the Sene is now Changed ; our minds and sentiments are
now altered. She that we call our mother Country and pairent
State is now without any Just Cause or Injury done by these
Colonies, become their greatest enemies. The unprovoked In-
juries these Colonies have received ; the unjustifiable and un-
constitutional Claims that have been made on these Colonies by
the Court of greate Britten, to Tax us and take away our Sub-
stance from us, and that at any time and for any use that they
please without our consent, and the cruel prosecuting these their
Claims, have been cruel and unjust to the Highest degree; the
whole of their governours appointed and sent into these colonies,
are so well known, and have been by much abler hands set
fourth in such a clear, true and plaine Light, we think it need-
less to Innumerate any further particulars.

"For these reasons, Sir, as well as many others that might be
mentioned, we are Confirmed in the opinion that the unighted

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

79

Colonies will be greatly wanting in their duty, both to the greate
governer of the univers, to themselves, and posterity, if Inde-
pendence of the kingdom of greate Britten is not declared as
soon as may be, — these being our Sentiments. But we would
not be understood that we mean to dictate, Leaving that mo-
mentous afaire to the well known wisdom, prudence, Justice,
and Integrity of that honorable body, the Continental Congress,
under whose direction it more Immediately belongs.

"And, in respect to a forme of government for the future, we
take it, that belongs to an after question ; and we could wish
that no Court or congress on this continent, might spend their
time in debateing about forms and serimonies, equall or unequal
representation in Court, at present. As enovasions are always
dangerous, we hartily wish that the antiant rules in the Charter,
which this province has been so much contending for, might be
strictly adheared to till such time as the whole of the people of
this Colony have Liberty to express their Sentiments in respect
to that afaie, as fully as they have in the cause of Independence.
For we are full in the opinion, that the sentiments of the people
in general, are never fully collected by the vote or opinion of a
few persons meat together, (tho appointed), when they desend
into matters of greate Importance that are wholly new, and
especially when the whole of the people are Immediately con-
cearned theirin.

"Haveing thus freely spoken our Sentiments in respect to In-
dependence &c. — We now Instruct you, Sir, to Honorable, the
Continental Congress, the strongest assuerances that if, for the
Safety of the united Colonies, they shall declare America to be
Independant of the Kingdom of greate Britten, your Constituants
will support and defend the measure with their Lives and for-
tunes to the uttmost of their power.”

"Thus,” says Mr. Cleaveland, "did the voice of encouragement,
and the pledge of support, from even this small community,
mingling with similar voices from hundreds of other towns, act-
ually reach the illustrious Congress at Philadelphia. It was not
without evidence of the fact, that John Adams, who knew Mass-
achusetts well, assured his compeers in Congress, that the people
would stand by the Declaration.”

The close of 1775 was a critical period for the army. No en-
listments extended beyond Dec. 31. In this emergency Wash-
ington called for 3000 volunteers from Massachusetts and 2000

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

from New Hampshire. A portion of Colonel Little’s regiment
remained. They were called "Six Weeks Men.” A muster
roll of Capt. Baker’s company is dated at Prospect Hill, Feb. 19,
1776.

With the beginning of 1776, a new army was to be recruited.
Men were enlisted for 12 months, "for the year 1776.” Colonel
Little’s regiment now became the 12th Regiment in the Mass-
achusetts Line. The regiment embraced eight companies and
among the officers from Topsfield were: — Ensign Benjamin
Gould,* Sergt. Daniel Gould, Samuel Gould, Thomas Perkins.

Another regiment of the Massachusetts Line was Col. John
Glover’s amphibious Marblehead regiment. John Hoed of Tops-
field was connected with this regiment. It reported to Gen.
Artemas Ward on the 22 June, 1775, and was quartered at the
Vassall house in Cambridge, July 1775. In Feb. 1777, the regi-
mental headquarters were at Brown’s tavern, while the regiment
itself lay encamped in an enclosed pasture to the north of the
colleges.

The defeat of the American forces on Long Island took place
Aug. 27, 1776. This was the first great disaster that had be-
fallen the patriot arms. The line to be defended was nearly six
miles in length, and the American force was wholly inadequte
for the purpose. Col. Little’s regiment under Lt. Col. Henshaw,
and Capt. John Baker with the Topsfield men were at the centre
on Brooklyn heights.

In the campaign during the fall of 1776, besides her regular
troops, Massachusetts sent many companies of militia into the
field. Colonel Cogswell’s regiment of Essex County militia was
at Fairfield, Conn., Oct. 19th, with six companies and 336 men,
where it constituted a part of General Parson’s brigade. It was
at Rye, N. Y., Nov. 3, and at North Castle, Nov. 20. Capt. Steph-
en Perkin’s company of 68 men, of whom 11 were from Tops-

*"We whose Names are underwritten do hereby severally Inlist ourselves into
the United American Colonies, and severally promise and engage to continue in
such service until the first Day of December, 1776, unless sooner Discharged ;
and to furnish ourselves each with a good effective Fire-Arm, and if possible, a
Bayonet fitted thereto, or in Lieu thereof, a Hatchet or Tomahawk, a Cartridge
Box and Blanket: — We also in like Manner promise and engage to obey all the
lawful commands of the Officers appointed, or to be appointed over us, pursuant
to the Resolves of the General Court of Massachusetts-Bay ; and under the Direc-
tion of such Officers, to march with the utmost Dispatch to New York and to be
subject to all such Rules and Regulations, in every Respect, as are provided for
the Continental Army. June 1776.

Benja Gould.'

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

81

field,* enlisted Sept. 22d. It was discharged Nov. 16th to which
is to be added twelve days for its return home from North Castle,
Westchester Co. New York, 250 miles from home.

The British made an attack on Fort Washington, Oct. 27,
which was repulsed. Capt. Perkins, in a letter to his wife writ-
ten from Rye, N. Y. the next day, alludes to the firing, and also
mentions the Topsfield men.

"Rye in NewYork Government, Oct°. 28, 1776.

Loving Wife,

As providence has put in my hands to write to you I
heartily improve it, and would inform you that I am in a Com-
fortable state of helth at present, and all the men from Tops-
field.

I ha’n’t any thing remarkable to write, Except that yesterday
there was a Tremendious firing, but at such a Distance from us
that we have not as yet heard the Event nor sertenly where it
was.

I hope through the blessing of God these lines will find you
and all my friends in health and prosperity.

You may inform Doctor Baker that I sent by Cap1 Dodge of
Wenham to the armey where Cap1 Baker is, and he informs me
that his Company is well.

I should be glad to hear from you, but it is not likely that you
can have an oppertunity to write as the time is so short that is
proposed for us to stay if my life and health should be preserved
as we are at so great a distance from you. Remember [me] to
my father in perticular and all the rest of my friends that shall
enquire after me. Trusting in the mercy and goodness of Goud,
I hope we shall live to see one another in this world ; if not I
hope we shall meet in the heavenly World.

So no more at present, but Subscribe myself your Loving
Husband till Death Shall pat us.

Stephn Perkins

N. B. I should have wrote more, but Capt. Dodge of Wenham
the barer hereof, Came here this morning, and we was about to
remove two miles farther, but in the same Town.

To Mrs. Eunice Perkins in Topsfield,
to be Left with Joseph Comings.”

*These men were Amos Averill, Nehemiah Cleaveland, John Cree, Josiah Cum-
mings, Benj. Hood, Jacob Perkins, Zebulon Perkins, John Rea, Ephraim Town,
Daniel Town, Joseph Town.

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

The same day Capt. Perkins wrote home, Oct. 28, there was a
partial engagement at White Plains, but neither party could
claim any decided advantage. Glover’s regiment took part in
this battle. So did Col. Little’s regiment with John Baker’s
company. Here Samuel Gould of Topsfield, in Captain Wade’s
company, was killed at 21 years of age.

Justly elated with his success at Trenton, Washington pro-
ceeded to Princeton. Here, on Jan. 3, 1777 the New England
regiments surprised the celebrated 55th British regiment and
took 194 prisoners. Soon after this splendid victory Washington
threw his army into comfortable winter quarters at Morristown,
N. J. The campaign of 1776 was ended.

The Massachusetts troops were soon on their way home.
Capt. John Dodge’s company of Wenham, in Col. Timothy Pick-
ering’s regiment, was discharged Mar. 13, 1777. One sergeant
and nine men from Topsfield were among the discharged at
Bound Brook, Penn., 328 miles from home. Each received £1. 7.
4. milage. Unpaid, sick, in rags, and without shoes, their home-
ward footsteps marked with blood the frozen ground. One in-
dividual instance must suffice. It is that of John Hood of Glov-
er’s regiment.

The Rev. George Hood says of his father: — "He was discharged
unpaid, and without a penny to buy a loaf, or a lodging. He,
with several neighbors, set out for home on foot 250 miles, beg-
ging food and shelter as they went. Only two or three days
from camp, John Hood was taken sick with the smallpox.
After having been carried some miles from house to house, he
was received at Coventry, Conn, and nursed by a kind old lady
named Barnes. When recovered, the kind people clothed and
sent him on his way to his friends, where he arrived early in the
spring. Here his stay was short. After only a few weeks at
home, he re-enlisted.”*

We shall want to hear from the heroic John Hood and his
fellow patriots again some day.

*Mr. Samuel Todd remembers having heard John Hood describe his standing
in the water to his armpits to hold the boats so that the men might get in, at the
crossing of the Delaware ; also how his hands were tied so that he might not tear
his face when he was sick with the smallpox and the doctor had well nigh given
him up ; also his reaching home and stopping down the Boxford road to greet his
father. He also remembers hearing Roger Balch describe the retreat from Long
Island.

TOPSFIELD SOLDIERS AND SAILORS
IN THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR

Compiled by George Francis Dow

Amasa Andrews, priv., Capt. John Baker's co., Col. Moses
Little’s regt. ; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775 ; enl. May 19, 1775 ;
service, 2 mos., 18 days. ; also , order for bounty coat dated Dec.
11, 1775; also , return of men enl. into Continental Army from
3d Essex co. regt., dated Ipswich, Sept. 30, 1777 ; joined Capt.
Job Whipple’s co., Col. Rufus Putnam’s regt. ; enl., 3 years ; also ,
Continental Army pay accounts for service from April 24, 1777,
to Aug. 28, 1777 ; reported, died Aug. 28, 1777.

Lilburn Andrews, descriptive list of enl. men raised agree-
able to resolve of June 9, 1779 ; Capt. Cumming’s co., Col. Cogs-
well’s regt. ; age, 19 years ; stature, 5 ft., 10 in. ; complexion,
light ; enl., 9 mos. ; also, receipt for equipments received of Capt.
James Tisdale, dated Springfield, Aug. 22, 1779 ; also, Colonel’s
co. 10th regt.; enl. Aug. 22, 1779; disc. May 21,1780; enl., 9
mos.; also, priv., Capt. Benj. Gould’s co., Col. Wade’s regt.; enl.
July 6, 1780; disc. Oct. 10, 1780; service, 3 mos., 17 days.; enl.,
3 mos. ; co. raised to reinforce Continental Army ; also, receipt
for bounty paid him by John Ingles of Class No. 10 for Andover
to serve in the Continental Army for 3 years, dated Boston, April
29, 1782.

Amasa Andross, priv., Capt. Baker’s co., Col. Little’s regt. ;
co. return [probably Oct., 1775] ; enl. May 2, 1775 ; age, 17 years.

Amos Averell, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’ co., which
marched on alarm of April 19, 1775; service, 2 1/2 days; also,
pay roll for service from Sept. 22 to Nov. 16, 1776, 2 mos., 7 days.
Roll dated North Castle.

Isaac Averell, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’ co., which
marched on alarm of April 19, 1775; service, 2 1/2 days.

Nathaniel Averell, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’ co., which
marched on alarm of April 19, 1775; service, 2 1/2 days.

(83)

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Daniel Averill, priv., Capt. James Mallon’s co., Essex co.
regt.; enl. Oct. 8,1779; disc. Nov. 10,1779; service 1 mo., 5
days, at Castle Island, under Maj.-Gen. Hancock.

John Baker, capt. ; petition dated Cambridge, May 25, 1775,
signed by said Baker and others, asking that Moses Little and
Isaac Smith be respectively commissioned as Col. and Lt. Col. ;
also , list of officers in Col. Moses Little’s (Essex co.) regt., dated
June 15, 1775; stationed at Cambridge; reported commissioned
June 27, 1775; also, muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775; enl. April
24, 1775 ; service, 3 mos., 15 days ; also, co. return [probably
Oct., 1775] ; age, 41 years.

John Baker, priv., Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses Little’s
regt. ; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775 ; enl. May 29, 1775 ; service,
2 mos., 8 days ; also, fifer ; co. return [probably Oct., 1775] ; age
12 years ; enl. May 2, 1775 ; also, order for bounty coat or its
equivalent in money, dated Dec. 11, 1775 ; also, Capt. John Dodge’s
co., Col. Jacob Gerrish’s regt. of guards; enl. July 11, 1778; disc.
Dec. 16, 1778; service, 5 mos., 6 days, at Winter Hill.

John Baker, Jr., priv., Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses
Little’s regt.; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775; enl. May 20, 1775;
service, 2 mos., 17 days. ; also, co. return [probably Oct., 1775] ;
age, 22 years ; enl. May 2, 1775 ; also, order for bounty coat or
its equivalent in money, dated Dec. 11, 1775.

Cornelius Balch, corp., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co., Col. John
Baker’s regt., which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ;
service, 3 days.

David Balch, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co., Col. John Bak-
er’s regt., which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; ser-
vice, 3 days.

David Balch, jr., priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co., Col. John
Baker’s regt. which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; ser-
vice, 5 days.

David Balch, 3d. priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co., Col. John
Baker’s regt., which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ;
service, 5 days.

Israel Balch, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co., Col. John Bak-
er’s regt., which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service,
5 days ; also , Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses Little’s regt. ;
muster roll dated Aug. 1,1775; enl. May 2,1775; service 3

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

85

mos., 7 days; also , co. return [probably Oct., 1775] ; age, 21 years;
also, order for bounty or its equivalent in money, dated Dec. 11,
1775.

Robert Balch, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co., Col. John
Baker’s regt., which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ;
service, 5 days. ; also, Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Ebenezer
Francis’ regt. ; pay roll for two days service, sworn to Nov. 29,
1776 ; marched to camp and home again.

Roger Balch, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co., Col. John Bak-
er’s regt., which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service,
5 days. ; also, Capt. John Dodge’s co., Col. Jacob Gerrish’s regt.
of guards ; enl. Nov. 12, 1776 ; rolls made up April 3, 1778 ; ser-
vice, 4 mos., 22 days, at Charlestown and Cambridge.

Samuel Balch, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co., Col. John
Baker’s regt., which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ;
service, 5 days,; also,'C apt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses Little’s
regt. ; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775 ; enl. May 23 (also given
May 2), 1775; service, 2 mos., 14 days; also, co. return [prob-
ably Oct., 1775] ; age, 19 years ; also, order for bounty coat or
its equivalent in money, dated Dec. 11, 1775.

Edmund Morris Barker ; also of Haverhill ; descriptive list
of men enl. from Essex County for 9 mos. from their arrival at
Fishkill, June 20, 1778 ; Capt. Marsh’s co., Col. Johnson’s (4th)
regt. ; aged, 16 years ; stature, 5 ft. 2 in. ; complexion, light ;
residence, Haverhill.

John Batchelor, priv., in Capt. Stephen Perkins’ co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775; service, 2 1/2 days.

Daniel Bigsbe, priv., in Capt. Joseph Gould’s co., Col. John
Baker’s regt., which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ;
service, 3 days.

Daniel Bigsbe, Jr., priv., in Capt. Joseph Gould’s co., Col.
John Baker’s regt., which marched on the alarm of April 19,
1775 ; service, 5 days.

Dudley Bixby, priv., in Capt. Joseph Gould’s co., Col. John
Baker’s regt., which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ;
service, 5 days. Private in Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Little’s
regt. ; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775 ; enl. May 17, (also given
May 2) 1775 ; service, 2 mos., 19 days ; also, co. return [probably
Oct. 1775]; age, 20 years; priv., Capt. John Baker’s co., Capt.
Moses Little’s regt. ; order for bounty coat dated Dec. 11, 1775.

86

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

James Birch of Danvers, (also given Topsfield) ; Lt. Billy
Porter’s co., Col. Mansfield’s regt. ; order for advance pay dated
Cambridge, June 22, 1775; also, priv., Capt. Ebenezer Francis’
co., Col. Mansfield’s regt. ; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775 ; enl.
May 4, 1775; service, 3 mos., 5 days; also, Capt. Francis’ co.,
Col. Israel Hutchinson’s regt.; order for bounty coat, dated
Camp at Winter Hill, Oct. 26, 1775; also, Lt.-Col.’s co., Col. Calvin
Smith’s (late Wigglesworth’s) regt. ; Continental Army pay ac-
counts for service from Feb. 11, 1777, to Dec. 31, 1779 ; residence,
Danvers ; credited to town of Danvers ; also, Capt. Daniel Pils-
bury’s co., Col. Edward Wigglesworth’s (4th) regt. ; muster roll
for May, 1778, dated Valley Forge; enlistment, 3 years; also,
muster roll, for June, 1778, dated "Greenage;” also, pay abstract
for Oct. 1778, sworn to at Providence; also, Lt.-Col. Dudley
Coleman’s co., Col. Wigglesworth’s regt., com. by Maj. Porter ;
muster roll for March and April, 1779, dated Providence ; enl.
Feb. 8, 1777.

John Carpenter, list of men mustered in Essex co., dated
Topsfield, July 16, 1778 ; Capt. Ezra Lunt’s co., Col. David Hen-
ley’s regt. ; enlistment, 3 years.

David Clark, priv., Capt. Peter Page’s co., Col. Calvin Smith’s
regt. ; Continental Army pay accounts for service from Jan. 16,

1777, to Dec. 31, 1779; residence, Topsfield; enlisted for town of
Topsfield ; also, Capt. Joseph McNall’s co., Col. Edward Wiggles-
worth’s regt. ; muster return [year not given] ; mustered by Es-
quire Cushing ; also, same co. and regt. ; muster roll for May,

1778, dated Camp at Valley Forge ; enlistment, during war ; also,
same co. and regt. ; pay roll for Oct., 1778 ; also, Capt. Peter
Page’s co., Col. Wigglesworth’s regt. ; muster roll for March and
April, 1779, dated Providence ; enlisted Jan. 16, 1777 ; also, Capt.
Fowle’s co., Col. Calvin Smith’s regt. ; Continental Army pay
accounts for service from Jan. 1, 1780, to Dec. 31, 1780 ; also, de-
scriptive list of enlisted men dated West Point, Jan. 25, 1781 ;
Col. John Greaton’s (3d) regt. ; age, 29 years.; stature 5 ft. 8 in.;
complexion, light ; hair, light ; eyes, gray ; enlisted Jan. 20, 1777,
by Lieut. Sweatt ; enlistment, during war.

David Clarke, return of men enlisted into Continental Army
from Capt. Stephen Perkins’s and Capt. Nehemiah Herrick’s cos.,
Col. Jonathan Cogswell’s (3d Essex Co.) regt., dated Ipswich,
Sept. 30, 1777 ; enlisted for town of Topsfield ; joined Capt. Fair-
field’s co., Col. Wigglesworth’s regt. ; enlistment, 3 years (also
given during war.)

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

87

Israel Clarke, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co. of minute-
men, which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 2
1/2 days.

Samuel Commens, lieutenant in Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of
minute-men, Col. John Baker’s regt. ; which marched on the
alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days.

John Commings, priv., Capt. Ebenezer Francis’s co., Col.
John Mansfield’s (19th) regt. commanded by Lieut. Col. Israel
Hutchinson ; company return dated Oct. 6, 1775.

Cornelius Cree, return of men enlisted into Continental
army from Capt. Stephen Perkins’s and Capt. Nehemiah Her-
rick’s cos., Col. Cogswell’s (3d Essex Co.) regt., sworn to in
Essex Co., Feb. 18, 1778; enlisted for town of Topsfield ; joined
Capt. Whipple’s co., Col. Rufus Putnam’s regt.; enlistment, 8
months, to expire Jan. 10, 1778 ; also , priv., Capt. John Dodge’s
co., Col. Jacob Gerrish’s regt. of guards ; enlisted July 25, 1778 ;
discharged Dec. 16, 1778; service, 4 mos. 22 days, at Winter Hill;
also , pay roll for 6 months men raised by the town of Topsfield
for service in the Continental Army during 1780 ; marched Nov.

15, 1780 ; discharged May 16, 1781 ; service, 6 mos. 12 days ; also,
priv., Capt. Job Whipple’s co., Col. Rufus Putnam’s (5th) regt. ;
muster rolls for Jan. - April, 1781, dated West Point ; enlisted Nov.

16, 1780 ; enlistment, 6 months ; also , receipt dated Boston, May
4, 1782, for bounty paid said Cree by Capt. Stephen Perkins,
chairman of Class No. 3 of the town of Topsfield, to service in
the Continental Army for the terms of 3 years.

John Cree, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of minute-men,
Col. John Baker’s regt., which marched on the alarm of April
19, 1775 ; service, 5 days ; also, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co. ;
enlisted Sept. 22, 1776 ; discharged Nov. 16, 1776 ; service, 2 mos.
7 days, including time to return home ; roll dated North Castle ;
also, descriptive list of men raised in Essex Co. for the term of
9 months from the time of their arrival at Fishkill, June 17, 1778,
returned as received of Jonathan Warner, Commissioner, by
Capt. John Santford, of Col. Malcom’s regt. ; Capt. Herrick’s co. ;
age, 40 yrs. ; stature, 5 ft. 8 in. ; complexion, dark.

Joseph Cree, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of minute-men,
Col. John Baker’s regt., which marched on the alarm of April
19, 1775 ; service, 3 days ; also, Capt. Jeremiah Putnam’s co.,
Col. Nathan Tyler’s regt. ; enlisted July 28, 1779; service to Dec.
1, 1779, 4 mos. 3 days, at Rhode Island ; also, same co. and regt. ;

88

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

pay roll for Dec., 1779, allowing 1 mo. 5 days service at Rhode
Island ; also , pay roll for 6 months men raised by the town of
Topsfield for service in the Continental Army during 1780 ;
marched Nov. 15, 1780 ; discharged May 16, 1781 ; service, 6
mos. 12 days ; also , priv., Capt. Job Whipple’s co., Col. Rufus
Putnam’s (5th) regt; muster rolls for Jan. -April, 1781, dated
West Point; enlisted Nov. 16, 1780; enlistment, 6 months.

Samuel Cree, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co., Col. John Bak-
er’s regt., which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service,
3 days.

John Cumings, priv., Capt. Job Whipple’s co., Col. Rufus
Putnam’s (5th) regt. ; Continental Army pay accounts for ser-
vice from April 19, 1777, to Dec. 31, 1779 ; credited to town of
Topsfield ; reported as serving 20 mos. as private, 12 mos. 12
days as Sergeant to which rank he was appointed Dec. 19, 1778.

Josiah Cumings, priv., Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses
Little’s (17th) regt. ; company return [probably Oct., 1775] ; age,
21 years. ; enlisted May 2, 1775.

John Cummings, return of men enlisted into Continental
Army from Capt. Stephen Perkins’s and Capt. Nehemiah Her-
rick’s co., Col. Cogswell’s (3d Essex Co.) regt., sworn to in Essex
Co., Feb. 18,1778; residence, Topsfield; enlisted for town of
Topsfield; joined Capt. Whipple’s co., Col. Putnam’s regt.; en-
listment, during war ; also, Sergeant, Capt. Whipple’s co., Col.
Rufus Putnam’s regt. ; Continental Army pay accounts for ser-
vice from Jan. 1, 1780, to Dec. 31, 1780; also, descriptive list of
enlisted men dated West Point, Jan. 10, 1781 ; age, 25 years, 6
mos.; stature, 5 ft. 11 in.; complexion, light ; hair, brown; eyes,
blue; Sergeant; enlisted April 19 (also given April 14), 1777; by
Capt. Whipple ; joined Capt. Whipple’s co., Col. Rufus Putnam’s
(5th) regt. ; muster rolls for Jan.- April, 1781, dated West Point;
reported sick in the country in Jan.-March, 1781.

Josiah Cummings, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co. of minute-
men, which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service,
21/2 days ; also, Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses Little’s (17th)
regt. ; order for bounty coat or its equivalent in money dated
Dec. 11, 1775; also, Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., Col. Cogswell’s
regt. ; engaged Sept. 22, 1776 ; discharged Nov. 16, 1776 ; service,
2 mos. 7 days, travel included ; roll dated North Castle.

Thomas Cummings, sergeant, Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co. of
minute-men, which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; ser-
vice, 2 1/2 days.

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

89

Daniel Cummins, priv., Capt. Joshua French’s co., Col. Ed-
ward Wiggles worth’s regt. ; pay abstract for mileage from Al-
bany home; warrant allowed in Council, Jan. 30, 1777.

Josiah Cummins, priv., Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Little’s
regt. ; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775 ; enlisted May 5, 1775 ; ser-
vice, 3 mos. 4 days.

Simeon Currier, priv., CapL Joshua French’s co., Col. Ed-
ward Wigglesworth’s regt. ; pay abstract for mileage from Al-
bany home ; warrant allowed in Council, Jan. 30, 1777 ; said Cur-
rier reported as nor having joined company until after the travel
allowance was paid at Ticonderoga.

Cyrus Davis, sergeant, Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Samuel
Johnson’s regt., Gen. Warner’s brigade; marched Aug. 15, 1777;
discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service, 4 mos., in Northern Depart-
ment; travel allowed from Peekskill home; company raised
from 3d [Essex Co.] regt.

John Davison, priv., Capt. Joshua French’s co., Col. Edward
Wigglesworth’s regt.; pay abstract for milage from Albany
home ; warrant allowed in Council, Jan. 30, 1777.

Daniel Dodge, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Ebenezer
Francis’s regt. ; pay abstract for travel allowance, etc., to and
from camp, sworn to Nov. 29, 1776 ; credited with 2 days allow-
ance; company drafted from Amesbury, Newbury, Rowley,
Ipswich, Topsfield, Wenham, and Lynn.

Solomon Dodge, Lieutenant, Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co. of
minute-men, which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; ser-
vice, 1 day ; also, 1st Lieutenant, Capt. Stephen Perkins’s (4th)
co., 3d Essex Co. regt. of Mass, militia ; list of officers chosen by
companies in said regiment, as returned by Jonathan Cogswell,
Jr., and others, field officers, dated Ipswich, May 6, 1776 ; ordered
in Council, May 7, 1776 ; that commissions be issued ; reported
commissioned May 7, 1776 ; also , order dated Council chamber,
Feb. 12, 1778, directing officers of 4th co., Col. Jonathan Cogs-
well’s regt., to make choice of officers in place of Capt. Robert
Perkins and said Dodge, Lieutenant, they having received per-
mission to resign their respective commissions.

Ephraim Dorman, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co. of min-
ute-men, which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service,
21/2 days.

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Nathaniel Dorman, sergeant, Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co.
of minute-men, which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ;
service, 2 1/2 days.

Amos Dwennell, priv., Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses
Little’s regt. ; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775 ; enlisted May 2,
1775 ; service, 3 mos. 7 days.

Amos Dwinbll, priv., Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses
Little’s (17th) regt.; company return [probably Oct. 1775]; age,
20 years; reported enlisted May 2, 1775; also , order for bounty
coat or its equivalent in money dated Dec. 11, 1775.

Bartholomew Dwinil, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of
minute-men, Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched
on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 2 days.

Daniel Easty, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of minute-men,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775; service, 3 days; also , Capt. John Davis’s co.,
Col. Jonathan Cogswell’s regt. ; enlisted Oct. 13, 1778 ; discharged
Dec. 15, 1778 ; service, 2 mos. 5 days, travel included ; company
detached to guard and fortify posts at and about Boston.

William Easty, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of minute-
men, Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the
alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days.

"Fortain” Emerson, (also given Foster), list of men raised to
serve in the Continental Army from Capt. Stephen Perkins’s
and Capt. Nehemiah Herrick’s cos., 3d Essex Co. regt., sworn to
in Essex Co., Feb. 18, 1778 ; enlisted for town of Topsfield ; joined
Capt. Thomas’s co., Col. Marchol’s (Marshall’s) regt. ; enlistment,
3 years.

Jesse Emery, Boxford, (also given Topsfield), return dated
Boxford, Feb. 13, 1778, made by a committee appointed to raise
one-seventh part of the male inhabitants of the town of Boxford
to serve in the Continental Army ; residence, Boxford ; engaged
for town of Boxford ; joined Capt. Samuel Carr’s co., Col. J. Wes-
son’s regt. ; term to expire Jan. 1, 1780; also, priv., Capt. Sam-
uel Carr’s co., Col. James Wesson’s regt. ; Continental Army
pay accounts for service from March 19, 1777, to Dec. 31, 1780;
residence, Topsfield ; credited to town of Boxford ; also , descrip-
tive list made up from Jan. 1, 1780, to Dec. 31, 1780 ; age, 31
years ; stature, 5 ft. 9 in. ; complexion, dark ; hair, dark ; occu-
pation, mason ; birthplace, Topsfield; residence, Topsfield; en-

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

91

listed March 19, 1777, by Capt. Carr at Boxford ; joined Capt.
Samuel Carr’s co., 8th regt. commanded by Col. Michael Jackson;
enlistment, during war.

Benjamin Emmerton, sergeant, Capt. Robert Dodge’s co.,
Col. Jonathan Titcomb’s regt. ; marched from home April 25,
1777; service, 2 mos. 8 days, at Rhode Island. Roll dated
Warren.

John Faver, corporal, Capt. Joshua French’s co., Col. Edward
Wigglesworth’s regt. ; pay abstract for mileage from Albany
home ; warrant allowed in Council Jan. 30, 1777.

John Favor, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Samuel
Johnson’s regt., Gen. Warner’s brigade; marched from home
Aug. 15, 1777 ; discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service, 4 mos., in
Northern department; travel allowed from Peekskill home;
company raised from 3d [Essex Co.] regt.

Daniel Fisher, descriptive list of men raised by the town of
Topsfield to serve in the Continental Army, agreeable to resolve
of April 20, 1778, dated May 30, 1778 ; Capt. Herrick’s co. ; age,
28 years; stature, 5 ft. 7 in.; complexion, dark; residence, Tops-
field ; engaged for town of Topsfield ; reported rejected by the
Muster Master General as unfit for service.

Nathaniel Fisk, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of minute-
men, Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the
alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 2 days.

Samuel Fisk, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of minute-men,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775 ; service, 2 days.

Daniel Flood, descriptive list of men raised in Essex Co. for
the term of 9 months from the time of their arrival at Fishkill ;
Capt. Cummings’s co., Col. Cogswell’s regt. ; age, 36 years ; sta-
ture, 5 ft. 11 in.; complexion, light; residence, Topsfield; en-
gaged for town of Topsfield ; arrived at Fishkill, June 1778; also ,
private, Capt. Benjamin Peabody’s co., Lieut. Col. Commandant
Enoch Putnam’s regt. ; enlisted Sept. 18, 1781 ; discharged Dec.
2, 1781 ; service, 2 mos. 27 days, travel included ; regiment raised
in Essex and Plymouth countries to reinforce Continental Army
for 3 months.

John Flood, descriptive list of men raised in Essex Co. for
the term of 9 months from the time of their arrival at Fishkill;

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Capt. Cummings’s co., CoL Cogswell’s regt. ; age, 19 yrs. ; stature,
5 ft. 8 in. ; complexion, light ; residence, Topsfield ; engaged for
town of Topsfield ; arrived at Fishkill, June 17, 1778.

Stephen Foster, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co. of minute-
men, which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 1
day.

Fortune Freeman, (also given Salem), priv., Colonel’s co.,
Col. Thomas Marshall’s regt. ; Continental Army pay accounts
for service from Sept. 7, 1777, to Dec. 31, 1779; residence, Tcps-
field ; also , (late) Capt. Philip Thomas’s co., Col. Thomas Mar-
shall’s (10th) regt. ; return for clothing delivered for the year
1778 ; also , Capt. Thomas’s co., Col. Marshall’s regt. ; muster
roll for Jan., 1779, dated West Point ; enlisted Sept. 7, 1777 ; en-
listment, 3 years ; alsoL Colonel’s co., Col. Marshall’s regt. ; mus-
ter roll for April, 1779, dated West Point; also, same co. and
regt. ; Continental Army pay accounts for service from Jan. 1,
1780 to Dec. 31, 1780; also, descriptive list endorsed "West Point,
Jan. 11,1781;” Capt. William Parks’s co., Col. Benjamin Tup-
per’s (10th) regt. ; age, 37 (also given 36) years ; stature, 5 ft.
10 in. ; complexion, negro; hair, black; residence, Topsfield;
enlisted Dec. 23, 1779, by Capt. Parks ; enlistment, during war ;
also, private, Col. Benjamin Tupper’s (10th) regt.; service, from
Jan. 1, 1781, 24 mos. ; also, 10th Mass. regt. ; list dated Boston,
Jan. 28, 1803, returned by John Avery, Secretary, and J. Jackson,
Treasurer, of men who had enlisted into the Continental Army
and actually served 3 years, and were accordingly entitled to
gratuities under resolves of March 4, 1801, and June 19, 1801 ;
residence, Salem; said Freeman credited with $20.

Robert Gage, priv., Capt. Jeremiah Putnam’s co., Col. Nath-
an Tyler’s regt. ; enlisted July 28, 1779 ; service to Dec. 1, 1779,
4 mos. 3 days, at Rhode Island ; also, same co. and regt. ; pay
roll for Dec., 1779, allowing 1 mo., 5 days service at Rhode Is-
land.

Bartholomew Gale, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col.
Samuel Johnson’s regt., Gen. W'arner’s brigade ; marched from
home Aug. 15, 1777 ; discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service, 4 mos.,
in Northern department ; travel allowed from Peekskill home ;
company raised from 3d [Essex Co.] regt. Roll certified at Ips-
wich.

William Gallop, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co. of minute-
men, which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service,
2 1/2 days.

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

93

Isaac Gidding, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Samuel
Johnson’s regt., Gen. Warner’s brigade ; marched from home
Aug. 15, 1777 ; discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service, 4 mos., in
Northern department; travel allowed from Peekskill home;
company raised from 3d (Essex Co.) regt. Roll certified at Ips-
wich.

Samuel Giles, return of men raised to serve in the Contin-
ental Army from Capt. Stephen Perkins’s and Capt. Nehemiah
Plerrick’s cos., Col. Jonathan Cogswell’s (3d Essex Co.) regt.,
sworn to in Essex Co., Feb. 18, 1778; residence, Topsfield; en-
gaged for town of Topsfield; joined Capt. Page’s co., Col. Fran-
cis’s regt. ; term, 3 years ; also , corporal, Capt. Samuel Page’s
co., Col. Benjamin Tupper’s (15th) regt. ; Continental Army pay
accounts for service from March 1, 1777, to Dec. 31, 1779 ; also ,
Capt. Samuel Page’s co., Col. Ebenezer Francis’s regt. ; rations
allowed from date of enlistment, March 1, 1777, to time of ar-
rival at Bennington ; credited with 24 days allowance ; the Cap-
tain and 1st Lieutenant to march April 1, 1777, the rest to
march March 12,1777; also, Maj. William Lithgow’s co., Col.
Benjamin Tupper’s (15th) regt. ; muster roll for March, 1779,
dated West Point; also , same co. and regt.; Continental Army
pay accounts for service from Jan. 1, 1780, to March 1, 1780 ;
reported discharged March 1, 1780.

Timothy Gilman, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Sam-
uel Johnson’s regt., Gen. Warner’s brigade; marched from home
Aug. 15, 1777 ; discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service, 4 mos., in
Northern department; travel allowed from Peekskill home;
company raised from 3d [Essex Co.] regt. Roll certified at
Ipswich.

Benjamin Gold, lieut, Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Samuel
Johnson’s regt., Gen. Warner’s brigade; marched from home
Aug. 15, 1777; discharged Dec. 14, 1777; service, 4 mos., in Nor-
thern department ; travel allowed from Peekskill home ; com-
pany raised from 3d (Essex Co.) regt. Roll certified at Ipswich.

Daniel Gold, corporal, Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Samuel
Johnson’s regt., Gen. Warner’s brigade; marched from home
Aug. 15, 1777 ; discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service, 4 mos., in Nor-
thern department ; travel allowed from Peekskill home ; com-
pany raised from 3d (Essex Co.) regt. Roll certified at Ipswich.

Zaccheus Gold, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Samuel
Johnson’s regt., Gen. Warner’s brigade; marched from home

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Aug. 15, 1777 ; discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service, 4 mos., in Nor-
thern department ; travel allowed from Peekskill home ; com-
pany raised from 3d [Essex Co.] regt. Roll certified at Ipswich.

Gould, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of minute-

men, Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the
alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 3 days.

Benjamin Gould, corporal, Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of min-
ute men, Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s; regt., which marched on
the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days ; also , Sergeant, Capt.
John Baker’s co., Col. Moses Little’s (17th) regt. ; muster roll
dated Aug. 1,1775; enlisted May 3 (also given May 2), 1775;
service, 3 mos. 6 days; also , company return [probably Oct., 1775] ;
age, 23 years ; also , order for bounty coat or its equivalent in
money dated Dec. 11, 1775 ; also , Ensign, Capt. Gideon Parker’s
co., Col. Moses Little’s (12th) regt.; engaged Jan. 1, 1776; said
Gould reported as at Cambridge ; also , 1st Lieutenant, Capt.
Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Samuel Johnson’s regt. ; return for ra-
tions allowed officers of said regiment, sworn to in Middlesex
Co., June 5, 1778 ; said Gould credited with rations from Aug.
14, 1777, to Dec. 12, 1777 ; also, 1st Lieutenant, Capt. Nehemiah
Herrick’s (19th) co., 3d Essex Co., regt. of Mass, militia ; list of
officers [year not given] ; also , Captain, 9th co., Col. Jonathan
Cogswell’s (3d Essex Co.) regt. of Mass, militia ; list of officers ;
commissioned July 3, 1780; also, Captain, Col. Wade’s (Essex Co.)
regt. ; entered service June 29, 1780 ; discharged Oct. 10, 1780 ;
service 3 mos. 24 days, travel included ; company raised to rein-
force Continental Army for 3 months.

Daniel Gould, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of minute-men.
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days ; also, Capt. John Baker’s co.,
Col. Moses Little’s (17th) regt.; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775;
enlisted May 23, 1775 ; service, 2 mos. 14 days ; also, company
return [probably Oct., 1775] ; age, 20 years. ; reported enlisted
May 2, 1775 ; also, order for bounty coat or its equivalent in
money dated Dec. 11, 1775; also, private, Capt. Nathaniel Wade’s
co. ; return of men who engaged for the year 1776, dated Jan.
7, 1776 ; enlisted Nov. 20, 1775 ; also, Capt. John Dodge’s co., Col.
Jacob Gerrish’s regt. of guards ; service from April 1, 1778, 2
mos. 26 days ; also, 3d Corporal ; company receipt given to Capt.
John Dodge, for wages, dated Camp Winter Hill, June 21, 1778 ;
said Gould allowed wages for 28 days service in April and the
month of May.

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

95

John Gould, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co., of minute-men,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775 ; service, 3 days.

John Gould, Jr., priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of minute-
men, Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the
alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 3 days.

John Gould, 3d., priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of minute-
men, Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the
alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 3 days.

Joseph Gould, captain of a company of minute-men, Col.
John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm of
April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days ; also , official record of a ballot
by the House of Representatives, dated Feb. 14, 1776 ; said Gould
chosen 2d Major, Col. Jonathan Cogswell’s, Jr’s (3d Essex Co.)
regt. of Mass, militia ; appointment concurred in by Council
Feb. 14, 1776; reported commissioned Feb. 15, 1776; also, list of
officers chosen by the several companies in the 3d Essex Co.
regt., as returned by said Gould and others, field officers, dated
Ipswich, May 6, 1776; ordered in Council May 7, 1776, that said
officers be commissioned.

Nathaniel Gould, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of minute-
men, Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the
alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days.

Samuel Gould, priv., Capt. Nathaniel Wade’s co. ; return of
men who enlisted for the year 1776, dated Jan. 17, 1776 ; enlisted
Dec. 6, 1775 ; also, account dated March 22, 1776 ; of clothing
delivered officers and men of Col. Little’s regt. in 1776 ; also,
Capt. Nathaniel Wade’s co., Col. Moses Little’s (12th) regt. ;
muster roll endorsed ”1776”.

Samuel Gould, descriptive list of men raised in Essex Co.
to serve in the Continental Army for the term of 9 months,
agreeable to resolve of June 9, 1779, returned as received of Jus-
tin Ely, Commissioner, by Capt. James Tisdale, at Springfield,
Aug. 23, 1779; Capt. Herrick’s co., Col. Cogswell’s regt.; age, 20
yrs. ; stature, 5 ft. 6 in. ; complexion, light ; engaged for town of
Topsfield; also, return dated Boxford, Dec. 8, 1779, of men
mustered by John Cushing, master for Essex Co., to join the
Continental Army for the term of 9 months, agreeable to resolve
of June 9, 1779; also, receipt given to Capt. James Tisdale, for
equipments, dated Springfield, Aug. 22, 1779, signed by said

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Gould and others ; also , descriptive list of men raised to rein-
force Continental Army for the term of 6 months, agreeable to
resolve of June 5, 1780, returned as received of Justin Ely, Com-
missioner, by Col. Timothy Bigelow, at Springfield, Oct. 1, 1780 ;
age, 21 yrs. ; stature, 5 ft. 5 in. ; complexion, light ; engaged for
town of Topsfield; arrived at Springfield Sept. 11, 1780; march-
ed to camp Oct. 1, 1780, under command of Lieut. Lynde; also ,
list of men raised for the 6 months service and returned by
Brig. Gen. Paterson as having passed muster in a return dated
Camp Totoway, Oct. 25, 1780 ; also , pay roll for 6 months men
raised by the town of Topsfield for service in the Continental
Army during 1780; marched Sept. 1, 1780; discharged Dec. 12,
1780 ; service, 3 mos., 23 days, travel included.

Simon Gould, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of minute-men,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775 ; service, 3 days.

Thomas Gould, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co., Col. John
Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm of April
19, 1775; service, 3 days.

Timothy Gourdin, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Sam-
uel Johnson’s regt., Gen Warner’s brigade ; marched from home
Aug. 15, 1777; discharged Dec. 14, 1777; service, 4 mos., in Nor-
thern department ; travel allowed from Peekskill home ; com-
pany raised from 3d [Essex Co.] regt. Roll certified at Ipswich.

Daniel Guild, priv., Capt. Joshua French’s co., Col. Edward
Wiggelsworth’s (Wigglesworth’s) regt. ; pay abstract for travel
allowance from Albany home ; warrant allowed in Council, Jan.
30, 1777.

Nathaniel PIammon, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co. of
minute-men, wThich marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ;
service, 2 1/2 days.

Benjamin Hardy, priv., Capt. Joshua French’s co., Col. Ed-
ward Wigglesworth’s regt. ; pay abstract for travel allowance,
etc., from Albany home ; 220 miles travel allowed said Hardy ;
warrant allowed in Council Jan. 30, 1777.

Ebenezer Hardy, priv., Capt. Joshua French’s co., Col. Ed-
ward Wigglesworth’s regt. ; pay abstract for travel allowance,
etc., from Albany home ; 220 miles travel allowed said Hardy ;
warrant allowed in Council Jan. 30, 1777.

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97

Jeremiah Hatch, account rendered by the selectmen of
Topsfield, of bounties paid said Hatch and others by the several
classes of said town to serve in the Continental Army for 3 years
or during the war, agreeable to resolve of Dec. 2, 1780 ; paid
Hatch received bounty of class No. 9, Zaccheus Gould, chairman ;
also, fifer, Capt. Tisdale’s co., Col. John Greaton’s (3d) regt. ;
muster roll for June, 1781, dated Phillipsborough ; also, muster
rolls for Aug. and Sept., 1781, dated Camp Peekskill ; also, mus-
ter roll for Oct. and Nov., 1781, dated Camp Highlands ; also,
muster rolls for Dec., 1781 - Feb., 1782, dated Hutts, New Boston ;
also, descriptive list dated Hutts, New Boston, May 13, 1782 ;
Capt. James Tisdale’s co., Col. John Greaton’s (3d) regt. ; age,
17 years ; stature, 5 ft. (also given 4 ft. 10 in.) ; complexion, dark ;
hair, dark ; eyes, dark ; occupation, yeoman (also given laborer) ;
residence, Topsfield; enlisted for town of Winchendon ; enlisted
April 10 (also given April 20), 1781 ; enlistment, during war ;
also, Capt. Tisdale’s co.; account current for clothing and sup-
plies between Jan. 11, 1782, and June 30, 1782; reported trans-
ferred to Capt. Woodbridge’s co., June 10, 1782.

— Herick, sergeant, Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Eb-

enezer Francis’s regt. ; pay roll for travel allowance to camp
and home, etc., sworn to Nov. 29, 1776 ; said Herick credited
with 2 days allowance; company drafted from Amesbury;
Newbury, Rowley, Ipswich, Topsfield, Wenham and Lynn.

Nehemiah PIerick, sergeant, Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of
minute-men, Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched
on the alarm of April 19. 1775 ; service, 5 days.

Nathaniel Herrick, (also given Beverly) priv., Capt.
Joshua French’s co., Col. Edward Wigglesworth’s regt. ; pay
abstract for travel allowances, etc., from Albany home ; 220
miles travel allowed said Herrick ; warrant allowed in council
Jan. 30, 1777 ; also, return of men raised to serve in the Con-
tinental Army from Capt. Stephen Perkins’s and Capt. Nehemiah
Herrick’s cos., 3d Essex Co. regt., sworn to in Essex Co., Feb.
18,1778; residence, Topsfield; engaged for town of Topsfield ;
joined Capt. Fairfield’s co., Col. Wigglesworth’s regt.; term dur-
ing war (also given 3 years) ; also , priv., Capt. Peter Page’s co.,
Col. Calvin Smith’s (late Wigglesworth’s) regt.; Continental
Army pay accounts for service from Jan. 1, 1777, to Dec. 31, 1779 ;
residence, Beverly ; also, Cap t. Joseph McNall’s co., Col. Edward
Wigglesworth’s regt. ; muster roll for May, 1778, dated Camp at
Valley Forge; reported mustered by Esq. Cushing ; also, same co.
and regt. pay roll for Oct., 1778 ; also, same co. and regt. ; return

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

of men who were in service before Aug. 15, 1777, and who had
not been absent subsequently except on furlough, dated Boston,
March 29, 1779 ; also, Capt. Page’s co., Col. Wigglesworth’s regt. ;
pay roll for March and April, 1779, dated Providence; enlisted
Dec. 20, 1776 ; reported on command at Boston Neck ; also, Capt.
Fowle’s co., Col. Smith’s regt. ; Continental Army pay accounts
made up for the year 1780; reported discharged Jan. 1, 1780.

Richard Hike, receipt dated Topsfield, Sept. 24, 1781, signed
by Thomas Porter, for bounty paid said Hine by Capt. Jacob
Gould to serve in the Continental Army for the term of 3 years ;
also, sergeant, Capt. Adams Bailey’s co., Col. John Bailey’s
(2d) regt. commanded by Lieut. Col. Sprout subsequent to Jan.
1, 1781 ; muster roll made up from Jan. 1, 1780, to Jan. 1, 1782;
appointed Sept. 3, 1781 ; term 3 years.

Benjamin Hobbs, corporal, Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co. of
minute-men, which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; ser-
vice, 2 1/2 days; also, Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses Little’s
(17th) regt. ; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775 ; enlisted May 4,
1775 ; service, 3 mos. 5 days ; also, company return [probably
Oct., 1775] ; enlisted May 2, 1775 ; age, 24 years.

David Hobbs, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co. of minute-
men, which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 2
1/2 days; also, list of men returned as serving on main guard at
Prospect Hill under Col. L. Baldwin, dated July 16, 1775.

Isaac Hobbs, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co. of minute-
men, which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 2
1/2 days; also, Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses Little’s (17th)
regt. ; muster roll dated Amg. 1, 1775 ; service, 2 mos. 22 days ;
also, company return [probably Oct., 1775] ; enlisted May 2, 1775;
age, 28 years ; also, order for bounty coat or its equivalent in
money dated Dec. 11, 1775.

Jonathan Hobbs, (also given Ipswich), priv., Capt. Stephen
Perkins’s co. of minute-men, which marched on the alarm of
April 19, 1775 ; service, 2 1/2 days ; also, Capt. Robert Dodge’s
co., Col. Jonathan Titcomb’s regt. ; marched from home April
25, 1777 ; service, 2 mos. 8 days, at Rhode Island, including travel
(8 days) to and from camp; roll dated Warren; company raised
for 2 months.

David Hobs, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Samuel
Johnson’s regt, Gen. Warner’s brigade; marched from home
Aug. 15, 1777 ; discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service, 4 mos., in

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

99

Northern department ; mileage from Peekskill home (275 miles)
allowed ; company raised from 3d [Essex Co.] regt. Roll cer-
tified at Ipswich.

Hezekiah Hodgkins, priv., Capt. Joshua French’s co., Col-
Edward Wiggelsworth’s (Wigglesworth’s) regt.; pay abstract
for travel allowance, etc., from Albany home ; 220 miles travel
allowed said Hodgkins ; warrant allowed in Council Jan. 30, 1777 ;
also, sergeant, Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Samuel Johnson’s
regt., General Warner’s brigade; marched from home Aug. 15,
1777 ; discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service, 4 mos., in Northern de-
partment ; mileage from Peekskill home (275 miles) allowed ;
company raised from 3d [Essex Co.] regt.

Hezekiah Hodgskins, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co. of
minute-men, which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775; ser-
vice, 2 1/2 days.

Amos Hood, priv., Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses Little’s
(19th) regt.; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775; enlisted^ May 10,
1775 ; service, 2 mos. 27 days ; also, company return [probably
Oct., 1775] ; enlisted May 2, 1775 ; age, 19 yrs. ; also, order for
bounty coat or its equivalent in money dated Dec. 11, 1775.

Benjamin Hood, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co. of minute-
men, which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 2
1/2 days ; also, Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., Col. Cogswell’s regt. ;
enlisted Sept. 22, 1776 ; discharged Nov. 16, 1776 ; service, 2 mos.
7 days, including 12 days (250 miles) travel home ; roll dated
North Castle.

John Hood, priv., Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses Little’s
(17th) regt. ; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775 ; enlisted May 23,
1775 ; service, 2 mos. 14 days ; also, company return [probably
Oct., 1775] ; enlisted May 2, 1775 ; age, 16 years ; also, order for
bounty coat or its equivalent in money dated Dec. 11, 1775 ; also,
private, Capt. John Dodge’s co., Col. Jacob Gerrish’s regt. of
guards ; enlisted Nov. 12, 1777 ; service to April 3, 1778, 4 mos.
22 days, at Charlestown and Cambridge ; also, list of men raised
in Essex Co. for the term of 9 months from the time of their ar-
rival at Fishkill, agreeable to resolve of April 20, 1778, returned
as received of Jonathan Warner, Commissioner, by Capt. John
Santford, of Col. Malcom’s regt. ; engaged for town of Topsfield ;
also, list of men returned as mustered by Henry Rutgers, Jr.,
Deputy Muster Master, dated Fishkill, Aug. 1, 1778; arrived at
Fishkill, June 17, 1778; also, priv., Capt. Joseph Hodgkins’s co.,

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Col. Timothy Bigelow’s regt. ; payrolls for Feb. -April, 1779,
dated Providence; enlistment, 9 mos.; reported discharged
March 24, 1779 ; also, Capt. Thomas Cumming’s co., Col. Jacob
Gerrish’s regt. ; enlisted Oct. 14, 1779 ; discharged Nov. 22, 1779 ;
service, 1 mo. 20 days, at Claverack, including travel (240 miles)
home; regiment detached from militia of Suffolk and Essex
counties to reinforce army under Gen. Washington ; also, ser-
geant, Capt. Benjamin Gould’s co., Col. Wade’s (Essex Co.) regt. ;
enlisted July 6, 1780; discharged Oct. 10, 1780; service, 3 mos.,
17 days, including 12 days (240 miles) travel home ; company
raised to reinforce Continental Army for 3 months. [See John
Flood.]

Joseph Hood, priv., Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses Little’s
(17th) regt; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775; enlisted May 4,
1775 ; service, 3 mos., 5 days ; also, company return [probably
Oct., 1775] ; enlisted May 2, 1775 ; age, 27 years ; also, order for
bounty coat or its equivalent in money dated Dec. 11, 1775 ; also,
corporal, Capt. John Dodge’s co., Col. Pickering’s regt. ; marched
Dec. 16, 1776 ; discharged March 15, 1777 ; service, 3 mos., 16
days, including 16 days (340 miles) travel home ; also, company
receipt for mileage home, given to Capt. John Dodge, dated
Springfield, March 16, 1777, signed by said Hood and others ;
also, priv., Capt. John Dodge’s detachment of militia, Col. Ger-
rish’s regt. ; muster roll for Feb., 1778, dated Winter Hill ; ser-
vice guarding Gen. Burgoyne’s army ; also, Capt. John Dodge’s
co., Col. Jacob Gerrish’s regt. of guards ; enlisted Nov. 12, 1777 ;
service to April 3, 1778, 4 mos., 22 days, at Charlestown and
Cambridge; also , sergeant, Capt. Thomas Cumming’s co., Col.
Jacob Gerrish’s regt. ; entered service Oct. 14, 1779 ; discharged
Nov. 22, 1779 ; service, 1 mo., 20 days, at Claverack, including
travel (240 miles) home ; regiment detached from militia of Essex
and Suffolk counties to reinforce army under Gen. Washington.

Richard Hood, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marked on the alarm of April 19, 1775; service, 2 1/2 days ; also ,
Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Little’s regt.; muster roll dated
Aug. 1, 1775 ; enlisted May 10, 1775 ; service, 2 mos. 27 days ;
also, order for bounty coat or its equivalent in money dated Dec.
11, 1775. [See Richard Wood]

Ivory Hovey, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19,1775; service, 2 1/2 days;
also, Capt. Joshua French’s co., Col. Edward Wiggles worth’s
regt. ; pay abstract for travel allowances, etc., from Albany home ;

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101

220 miles travel allowed said Hovey ; warrant allowed in Council
Jan. 30, 1777 ; also, Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Samuel John-
son’s regt., Gen. Warner’s brigade; marched from home Aug. 15,
1777 ; discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service, 4 mos., in Northern de-
department ; mileage (275 miles) allowed from Peekskill home ;
company raised from 3d (Essex Co.) regt. ; roll certified at Ip-
swich.

Elnathan Hubbard, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col.
Samuel Johnson’s regt.; Gen. Warner’s brigade; marched from
home, Aug. 15, 1777 ; discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service, 4 mos.,
in Northern department; mileage from Peekskill home (275
miles) allowed ; company raised from 3d [Essex Co.] regt. Roll
certified at Ipswich.

Jonathan Hubbard, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col.
Jonathan Titcomb’s regt. ; marched from home April 25, 1777 ;
service 2 mos. 8 days, at Rhode Island, including travel (8 days)
to and from camp ; company raised for 2 months. Roll certified
at Warren.

Benjamin Kimball, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775 ; service, 3 days ; also, corporal, Capt. John
Baker’s co., Col. Moses Little’s (17th) regt.; muster roll dated
Aug. 1, 1775 ; enlisted May 22, 1775 ; service, 2 mos. 15 days ;
also, company return [probably Oct., 1775] ; age, 20 years ; en-
listed May 2, 1775 ; discharged Aug. 5, 1775 ; reported deceased.

Jacob Kimball, sergeant, Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 2 days.

Jacob Kimball, fifer, Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses Little’s
(17th) regt. ; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775; enlisted May 22,
1775 ; service, 2 mos. 15 days ; also , company return [probably
Oct., 1775]; age, 14 years; reported enlisted May 2, 1775; dis-
charged Oct. 2, 1775.

Ebenezer Kingh, corporal, Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of mil-
itia, Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the
alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days.

Aaron Kneeland, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19,1775; service, 2 1/2 days;
also, Capt. John Dodge’s detachment of militia, Col. Gerrish’s
regt. ; muster roll for Feb., 1778, dated Winter Hill ; service
guarding Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne’s army; also , Capt. John Dodge’s

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

co., Col. Jacob Gerrish’s regt. of guards ; enlisted Nov. 12, 1777 ;
service to April 3, 1778, 4 mos. 22 days, at Charlestown and
Cambridge.

Enos Knight, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia, Col.
John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm of
April 19, 1775; service, 5 days.

Eleazer Lake, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia, Col.
John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm of
April 19, 1775 ; service, 3 days.

Eleazer Lake, Jr., priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days.

Jonathan Lambson, priv., Capt. John Baker’s co., Col.
Little’s regt.; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775; enlisted May 23,
1775 ; service, 2 mos. 14 days.

John Lamson, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19,1775; service, 2 1/2 days;
also , Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses Little’s (17th) regt. ;
company return [probably Oct., 1775] ; enlisted May 2, 1775 ;
age, 19 years ; also , order for bounty coat or its equivalent in
money dated Dec. 11, 1775 ; priv., Capt. John Dodge’s detachment
of militia, Col. Jacob Gerrish’s regt. ; muster roll for Feb., 1778,
dated Winter Hill; service guarding Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne’s
army ; also, Capt. Dodge’s co., Col. Gerrish’s regt. of guards ;
enlisted Nov. 12, 1777 ; service to April 3, 1778, 4 mos. 22 days,
at Charlestown and Cambridge.

Josiah Lamson, corporal, Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19,1775; service, 2 1/2 days;
also, sergeant, Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., Col. Cogswell’s regt. ;
engaged Sept. 22, 1776 ; discharged Nov. 16, 1776 ; service, 2 mos.
7 days, including 12 days (250 miles) travel home ; roll dated
North Castle.

John Lefavour, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775; service, 2 1/2 days.

Amos Low (also given Ipswich), priv. Capt. Stephen Perkins’s
co., which marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 2
1/2 days; also, Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses Little’s (17th)
regt. ; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775 ; enlisted May 24, 1775 ;
service, 2 mos. 13 days ; also, company return [probably Oct.,

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

103

1775] ; age, 21 years ; enlisted May 2, 1775 ; also, order for bounty
coat or its equivalent in money dated Dec. 11, 1775; also , priv.
Capt. Benjamin Adams’s co., Col. Johnson’s regt. ; enlisted Aug.
27, 1777 ; discharged Oct. 30 (also given Nov. 30), 1777 ; service,
2 mos. 5 (also given 2 mos. 3) days, with Northern army.

Jonathan Low, priv., Capt. James Mallon’s co. ; enlisted Oct.
8, 1779 ; discharged Nov. 10, 1779 ; service, 1 mo. 5 days, under
Maj. Gen. Hancock, at Castle Island; company raised in Essex
Co.

Philip McKensire, descriptive list of men raised in Essex
Co. for the term of nine months from the time of their arriva
at Fishkill ; age, 22 years; stature, 5 ft. 5 in. ; complexion, dark ;
engaged for town of Topsfield ; arrived at Fishkill, June 17, 1778.

Philip McKinzie, priv., Capt. Jeremiah Putnam’s co., Col.
Nathan Tyler’s regt. ; pay roll for Dec., 1779, allowing 1 mo. 5
days service at Rhode Island, travel (106 miles) included.

Patrick McMery, priv., Colonel’s co., Col. Thomas Marshall’s
regt. ; Continental Army pay accounts for service from Jan. 1,
1777, to Dec. 13, 1779 ; residence, Topsfield ; also, Capt. Philip
Thomas’s (5th) co., Col. Marshall’s regt. ; subsistence allowed
from date of enlistment, Jan. 15, 1777, to Feb. 6, 1777; credited
with 23 days allowance; subsistence also allowed for 11 days
(220 miles) travel on march from Boston to Bennington ; also,
same co. and regt. ; muster roll for Jan., 1779, dated West Point ;
enlisted Dec. 31, 1776 ; enlistment 3 years.

Thomas More, ensign, Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days.

Stephen Morse, priv., Capt. Joshua French’s co., Col. Ed-
ward Wiggelsworth’s regt.; pay abstract for travel allowance,
etc., from Albany home ; 220 miles travel allowed said Morse ;
reported did not join the company until after the travel allowance
was paid at Ticonderoga and was allowed 130 miles additional ;
warrant allowed in council Jan. 30, 1777.

George Nelson (also given Salem), list of men raised to
serve in the Continental Army from Col. Jonathan Cogswell’s
(3d Essex Co.) regt., as returned by Capt. Stephen Perkins and
Capt. Nehemiah Herrick; residence, Topsfield; enlisted for
town of Topsfield; joined Capt. Page’s co., Col. Francis’s regt.;
term 3 years ; also, list of men raised to serve in the Continental

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Army from 1st Essex Co. regt., sworn to at Salem by Joseph
Sprague, 1st military officer of said town ; residence, Salem ;
engaged for town of Salem ; joined Capt. Page’s co., Col. Francis’s
regt. ; term, 3 years or during war ; also, priv., Capt. Samuel
Page’s co., Col. Benjamin Tupper’s regt. ; Contintental Army
pay accounts for service from March 1, 1777, to March 1, 1780;
reported discharged ; also, Capt. Samuel Page’s co., Col. Eben-
ezer Francis’s regt. ; subsistence allowed from date of enlist-
ment, March 1, 1777, to time of arrival at Bennington ; credited
with 24 days allowance ; the Captain and 1st Lieutenant to march
April 1, 1777, the rest to march March 12, 1777 ; also, Maj.
William Lithgow’s co., Col. Tupper’s regt.; muster roll dated
West Point, April 5, 1779.

Free Parker, priv., Capt. Joshua French’s co., Col. Edward
Wigglesworth’s regt. ; pay abstract for travel allowance, etc.,
from Albany home; 220 miles travel allowed said Parker;
warrant allowed in Council Jan. 30, 1777.

"Bimsly” Peabody, Middleton (also given Topsfield) priv.,
Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses Little’s (17th) regt. ; muster
roll dated Aug. 1, 1775 ; enlisted May 2, 1775 ; service, 3 mos. 7
days; also, company return [probably Oct., 1775] ; age, 20 years;
also , order for bounty coat or its equivalent in money dated Dec.
11, 1775.

Jacob Peabody, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service 2 1/2 days.

Joseph Peabody, Boxford (also given Topsfield). Return
made by a committee appointed to raise one-seventh part of the
male inhabitants of the town of Boxford to serve in the Conti-
nental Army ; engaged for town of Boxford ; joined Capt. Job
Whipple’s co., Col. Rufus Putnam’s regt. ; term to expire Jan.
1, 1780 ; also, list of men raised to serve in Continental Army
from Col. Jonathan Cogswell’s (3d) Essex Co. regt., as returned
by Capt. Stephen Perkins and Capt. Nehemiah Herrick ; resi-
dence, Topsfield ; engaged for town of Topsfield; joined Capt.
Haffield White’s co., Col. Rufus Putman’s regt. ; term 3 years ;
also, priv., Capt. Job Whipple’s co., Col. Rufus Putnam’s 4th
(also given 5th) regt. ; Continental Army pay accounts for ser-
vice from April 15, 1777 to April 14, 1780.

Seth Peabody (also given Wells), return of men raised to
serve in the Continental Army from Col. Jonathan Cogswell’s
(3d Essex Co.) regt. ; residence, Topsfield; enlisted for town of

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

105

Topsfield ; joined Capt. Merrill’s co., Col. Brewer’s regt. ; enlist-
ment 3 years ; also, list of men raised to serve in the Continental
Army, as returned by Capt. Stephen Perkins and Capt. Nehemiah
Herrick ; also, priv., Capt. Hitchcock’s co., Col. Ebenezer Sprout’s
(12th) regt.; Continental Army pay accounts for service from
May 15, 1777, to Dec. 31, 1780 ; residence Wells ; credited to town
of Wells; also, Capt. Daniel Merrill’s co., Col. Samuel Brewer’s
regt. ; subsistence allowed from date of enlistment March 15, 1777 ;
to May 30, 1777; credited with 77 rations; also, Capt. Daniel
Merrill’s co., Col. Samuel Brewer’s regt. ; return [year not given]
mustered at Boxford ; also, descriptive list dated Feb. 3, 1781.
Capt. Luke Hitchcock’s co., 1st. Mass. regt. ; age 34 years ; stature,
5 ft. 7 in. ; complexion, light ; hair, light ; occupation, carpenter ;
birthplace, Topsfield ; residence, Topsfield ; enlisted April 1, 1780,
by Lieut. Miller, at West Point; enlistment, during war; also,
priv., Capt. Luke Hitchcock’s co., Col. Joseph Vose’s regt.; mus-
ter roll for April 1782, dated Garrison West Point ; reported trans-
ferred to the sappers.

John Peabody, sergeant, Capt. Joseph Gould’s co., of militia,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775 ; service 2 days.

Moses Perkins, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia, Col.
John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm of
April 19, 1775 ; service 3 days.

Thomas Perkins, Jr., priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775 ; service 5 days.

Thomas Perkins, 3rd., priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of
militia, Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt. ; which marched on
the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service 5 days.

Daniel Perkins, account sworn to in Essex Co., rendered by
the Selectmen of Topsfield, of bounties paid said Perkins and
others by the several classes of said town to serve in the Con-
tinental Army for 3 years or during the war, agreeable to resolve
of Dec. 2, 1780 ; said Perkins received bounty of class No. 13,
David Balch Chairman ; also , descriptive list of men in Continent-
al service ; Capt. Turner’s co., Lieut. Col. Brooks’s (7th) regt. ;
age, 18 years ; stature, 5 ft. 3 in. ; complexion, dark ; hair dark ;
occupation, farmer; residence, Topsfield; engaged April 1, 1781;
term, 3 years; also, priv., Capt. Asa Coburn’s co., Lieut. Col. John
Brooks’s (7th) regt., muster roll for May, 1781, dated West Point ;

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

also, muster roll for June, 1781 ; reported on command at West
Point ; also, Capt. Coburn’s (8th) co., Lieut. Col. Brooks’s regt. ;
muster roll for Dec. 1781, certified at York Hutts; also, Capt.
Jonathan Felts co., Lieut. Col. Brooks’s regt. ; muster rolls for
Jan. and Feb., 1782, dated York Hutts; also, 2d. co. ; entry dated
Dec. 27, [1783] of an order for wages for May-Dec. [year not given]
appearing in a register of orders accepted on account of wages,
etc.

David Perkins, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Ebenezer
Francis’s regt. ; pay abstract for travel allowance to camp and
home, etc., sworn to Nov. 29, 1776 ; said Perkins credited with
allowance for 2 days (40 miles) travel ; company drafted from
Amesbury, Newbury, Rowley, Ipswich, Topsfield, Wenham, and
Lynn.

David Perkins, 2d Lieut., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service 2 1/2 days; also,
2d Lieut., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s (4th) co. 3d Essex Co. regt.
of Mass, militia ; list of officers chosen by the several companies
in said regiment as returned by Jonathan Cogswell, Jr., and
others, field officers, dated Ipswich, May 6, 1776 ; ordered in
Council May 7, 1776, that said officers be commissioned ; report-
ed commissioned May 7, 1776 ; also, 2d Lieut., Capt. John Dodge’s
co., Col. Gerrish’s detachment of militia ; muster rolls for Feb.
1778, dated Winter Hill; detached Nov. 5, 1777; service guard-
ing Gen. Burgoyne’s army ; also, resignation dated Topsfield,
May 11, 1778, signed by said Perkins, resigning his commission
as 2d Lieut., Capt. Perkins’s (4th) co., Col. Jonathan Cogswells’s
(Essex Co.) regt., on account of advanced years; ordered in
Council May 25, 1778, that the resignation be accepted.

David Perkins, descriptive list of men in Continental service ;
Capt. Jonathan Felt’s co., Lieut. Col. J. Brooks’s (7th) regt. ; age
17 years ; stature, 5 ft. 2 in. ; complexion, light ; hair, dark ; oc-
cupation, laborer ; residence, Topsfield ; enlisted April 1, 1782 ;
enlistment, 3 years.

Elijah Perkins, drummer, Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775 ; service 5 days.

Elisha Perkins, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775; service 2 1/2 days.

Ezra Perkins, corporal, Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775; service 2 1/2 days; also.

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

107

Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses Little’s (17th) regt. ; company
return probably [Oct., 1775] ; enlisted May 2, 1775 ; age, 23 years ;
also , order for bounty coat or its equivalent in money dated Dec.
11, 1775.

John Perkins, (also given Ipswich) ; priv., Capt. John Baker’s
co., Col. Moses Little’s (17th) regt. ; muster roll dated Aug. 1,
1775; enlisted May 10, 1775; service, 2 mos. 27 days; also, com-
pany return [probably Oct., 1775] ; enlisted May 2, 1775 ; age, 22
years ; also, order for bounty coat or its equivalant in money dat-
ed Dec. 11, 1775 ; also, list of men raised to serve in the Continent-
al Army from Col. Jonathan Cogswell’s (3d Essex Co.) regt ; as
returned by Capt. Stephen Perkins and Capt. Nehemiah Herrick,
sworn to in Essex Co. Feb. 18, 1778 ; residence, Topsfield ; en-
gaged for town of Topsfield ; joined Capt. Hogskins’s (Hodgkin’s)
co., Col. Biglo’s (Bigelow’s) regt. ; term, 3 years ; also, priv., Capt.
Houdin’s co., Col. Timothy Bigelow’s regt. ; Continental Army
pay accounts for service from Jan. 1, 1780, to April 21, 1780 ;
residence, Ipswich.

Joseph Perkins, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775, service 2 1/2 days.

Joseph Perkins, ensign, Capt. Joshua French’s co., Col. Ed-
ward Wigglesworth’s regt. ; pay abstract for travel allowance,
etc., from Albany home ; 220 miles travel allowed said Perkins ;
warrant allowed in Council Jan. 30, 1777.

Moses Perkins, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Samuel
Johnson’s regt., Gen. Warner’s brigade; marched from home
Aug. 15, 1777, discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service 4 mos., in Nor-
thern department ; mileage for 275 miles allowed from Peekskill
home ; company raised from 3d [Essex Co.] regt.

Moses Perkins, Jr., priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt. ; which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775 ; service 5 days.

Moses Perkins, 3d, return of men raised to serve in the Con-
tinental Army from Col. Jonathan Cogswell’s (3d Essex Co.)
regt., dated Ipswich Sept. 30, 1777 ; residence, Topsfield ; enlist-
ed for town of Topsfield ; joined Capt. Whipple’s co., Col. Rufus
Putnam’s regt. ; enlistment to expire Jan. 10, 1777 ; also , list of
men raised to serve in the Continental Army, as returned by
Capt. Stephen Perkins and Capt. Nehemiah Herrick, sworn to
in Essex Co., Feb. 18, 1778; residence, Topsfield; enlisted for

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

town of Topsfield ; joined Capt. Whipple’s co., Col. Putnam’s
regt. ; enlistment, 8 months, to expire Jan. 10, 1778.

Oliver Perkins, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775; service, 2 1/2 days.

Robert Perkins, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775; service, 2 1/2 days.

Samuel Perkins, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 2 1/2 days.

Stephen Perkins, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service 1 day ; also , Capt.
Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Jonathan Titcomb’s regt. ; marched from
home April 25, 1777 ; service, 2 mos. 8 days, at Rhode Island, in-
cluding travel (8 days) to and from camp ; roll certified at Warren.

Stephen Perkins, Captain of a company which marched on
the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 2 1/2 days ; also, Captain 4th
co., 3d Essex Co. regt. of Mass, militia ; list of officers chosen by
the several companies in said regiment, as returned by Jonathan
Cogswell, Jr., and others, field officers, dated Ipswich, May 6,
1776 ; ordered in Council May 7, 1776, that said officers be com-
missioned ; reported commissioned May 7, 1776 ; also, Capt.,
Col. Jonathan Cogswell, Jr.’s regt. ; general return dated Ipswich,
Sept. 30, 1776, made by Brig. Michael Farley to Maj. Gen. James
Warren, of officers of a regiment drafted from said Farley’s
brigade and ordered to march to Horse Neck, agreeable to re-
solve of Sept. 12, 1776; company drafted from 3d Essex Co.
regt. ; also, Capt., Col. Cogswell’s regt. ; engaged Sept. 22, 1776 ;
discharged Nov. 16, 1776; service, 2 mos. 7 (also given 2 mos. 8)
days, including 12 days (250 miles) travel home; roll dated
North Castle; also, Council order dated Feb. 12, 1778, directing
Col. Jonathan Cogswell to cause the 4th co. in his regiment, to-
gether with the alarm list within the limits of the same, to as-
semble and make choice of offiers in place of said Perkins, Capt.
and Lieut. Solomon Dodge, they having received permission to
resign their respective commissions.

Thomas Perkins, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775; service, 2 1/2 days.

Thomas Perkins, priv., Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses
Little’s (17th) regt. ; company return [probably Oct., 1775] ; en-
listed May 2, 1775 ; age, 22 years ; also, order for bounty coat or
its equivalent in money dated Dec. 11, 1775.

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

109

Thomas Perkins, priv., Capt. Nathaniel Wade’s co. ; return
of men who engaged for the year 1776; enlisted Jan. 23, 1776;
also, Col. Little’s regt. ; account of clothing delivered, dated
March 22, 1776 ; also, Capt. Nathaniel Wade’s co., Col. Moses
Little’s (12th) regt.; muster roll endorsed "1776”.

Thomas Perkins, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Sam-
uel Johnson’s regt., Gen. Warner’s brigade; marched from home
Aug. 15, 1777 ; discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service, 4 mos., in
Northern department ; mileage (275 miles) allowed from Peeks-
kill home ; company raised from 3d [Essex Co.] regt.

William Perkins, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Sam-
uel Johnson’s regt., Gen. Warner’s brig.; marched from home
Aug. 15, 1777; discharged Dec. 14, 1777; service, 4 mos. in Nor-
thern department ; mileage for 275 miles allowed from Peekskill
home ; company raised from the 3d [Essex Co.] regt.

William Perkins, descriptive list of men raised in Essex Co.
for the term of 9 months from the time of their arrival at Fish-
kill, agreeable to resolve of April 20, 1778, returned as received
of Jonathan Warner, Commissioner, by Capt. John Santford, of
Col. Malcolm’s regt. ; Capt. Herrick’s co. ; age, 22 yrs. ; stature, 5
ft. 5 in.; complexion, dark; residence, Topsfield; engaged for
town of Topsfield ; also, list of men returned as mustered by Henry
Rutgers, Jr., Deputy Muster Master, dated Fishkill, Aug. 1, 1778 ;
arrived at Fishkill June 17, 1778.

Zebulon Perkins, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 1 day ; also, Capt.
Stephen Perkins’s co., Col. Cogswell’s regt. ; enlisted Sept. 22,
1776; discharged Nov. 16, 1776; service, 2 mos. 7 days, including
12 days (250 miles) travel home ; roll dated North Castle.

Moses Person, priv., Capt. Joshua French’s co., Col. Edward
Wigglesworth’s regt. ; pay abstract for travel allowance, etc.,
from Albany home ; 220 miles travel allowed said Person ; report-
ed as not having joined the company until after the travel allow-
ance was paid at Ticonderoga and in consequence was allowed
130 miles in addition to above allowance ; warrant allowed in
Council Jan. 30, 1777.

Thomas Pirkins, priv., Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Little’s
regt.; muster roll dated Aug 1, 1775; enlisted May 17, 1775; ser-
vice, 2 mos. 20 days.

Daniel Porter, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia, Col.

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TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

John Backer's (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm of
April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days.

Thomas Porter, sergeant, Capt. Joseph Goulds co. of militia,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days.

John Ray, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia, Col. John
Backer’s (Baker’s) regt. ; which marched on the alarm of April
19, 1775 ; service, 3 days.

John Ray, Jr., priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia, Col.
John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm of
April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days.

William Ray, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia, Col.
John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm of
April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days.

John Rea, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Ebenezer
Francis’s regt. ; pay abstract for travel allowance to camp and
home, etc., sworn to Nov. 29, 1776 ; said Rea credited with allow-
ance for 2 days (40 miles) travel ; company drafted from Ames-
bury, Newbury, Rowley, Ipswich, Topsfield, Wenham and Lynn.

William Rea, list of men raised to serve in the Continental
Army from Col. Jonathan Cogswell’s (3d Essex Co.) regt., as re-
turned by Capt. Stephen Perkins and Capt. Nehemiah Herrick ;
residence, Topsfield ; engaged for town of Topsfield ; joined Capt.
Page’s co., Col. Francis’s regt.; term 3 years; also , private, Capt.
Samuel Page’s co., Col. Benjamin Tupper’s regt., Continental
Army pay accounts for service from Feb. 26, 1777, to Feb. 26,
1780; reported discharged Feb. 26, 1780; also, Capt. Page’s co.,
Col. Ebenezer Francis’s regt. ; subsistence allowed from date of
enlistment, Feb. 26, [1777], to time of arrival at Bennington;
credited with 27 days allowance ; the Captain and 1st Lieuten-
ant to march Aprill, 1777, the rest to march March 12, 1777.

Job Sherburne, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Samuel
Johnson’s regt., Gen. Warner’s brig. ; marched from home Aug.
15, 1777 ; discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service 4 mos. in Northern
department ; mileage (276 miles) allowed from Peekskill home ;
company raised from 3d [Essex Co.] regt.

Andrew Smith, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Samuel
Johnson’s regt.; Gen. Warner’s brigade; marched from home
Aug. 15, 1777 ; discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service 4 mos. in Nor-

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

111

them department ; mileage from Peekskill home (275 miles)
allowed ; company raised from 3d [Essex Co.] regt.

Andrew Smith, priv., Capt. Benjamin Gould’s co., Col. Wade’s
regt. ; entered service July 6, 1780 ; discharged Oct. 10, 1780 ;
service 3 mos. 17 days, including 12 days (240 miles) travel home ;
regiment raised in Essex Co. to reinforce Continental Army for
3 months. Roll dated Topsfield.

Nathaniel Smith, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Sam-
uel Johnson’s regt., Gen. Warner’s brigade ; marched from home
Aug. 15, 1777 ; discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service 4 mos., in Nor-
thern department ; mileage (275 miles) allowed from Peekskill
home ; company raised from 3d [Essex Co.] regt.

Joseph Symans, priv., Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Little’s
regt. ; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775 ; enlisted May 2, 1775 ;
service, 3 mos. 7 days ; reported as serving in room of Isaac
Perkins.

Jacob Symonds, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 1 day ; report-
ed returned home.

Jos. Symonds, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775; service, 2 1/2 days; re-
ported returned home.

Moses Thomas, list of men raised to serve in the Continen-
al Army from Col. Jonathan Cogswell’s (3d Essex Co.) regt., as
returned by Capt. Stephen Perkins and Capt. Nehemiah Herrick ;
residence, Topsfield; engaged for town of Topsfield; joined
Capt. Marsh’s co., Col. Marshel’s regt., term, 3 years ; reported
a transient ; also, priv., Colonel’s co., Col. Thomas Marshall’s
(10th) regt; Continental Army pay accounts for service from
Jan. 1, 1777, to Dec. 31, 1779; reported discharged Dec. 13, 1779;
also, Capt. Phillip Thomas’s (5th) co., Col. Marshall’s regt. ; sub-
sistence allowed from date of entering service, Dec. 12, 1776, to
Feb. 6, 1777; credited with 57 days allowance; subsistence also
allowed for 11 days (220 miles) travel on march from Boston to
Bennington ; also, same co. and regt. ; muster roll for Jan. 1779,
dated West Point ; enlisted Dec. 13, 1776 ; reported on furlough
by leave of Gen. Paterson for 2 months from Jan. 18 [year not
given] ; also, Colonel’s co., Col. Marshall’s regt. ; muster roll for
April, 1779, dated West Point ; also, Capt. Benjamin Gould’s co.,
Col. Wade’s regt. ; entered service July 6, 1780 ; discharged Oct.

112

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

10, 1780 ; service, 3 mos. 17 days, including 12 days (240 miles)
travel home ; regiment raised in Essex Co. to reinforce Conti-
nental Army for 3 months.

Philip Thomas, Rindge (also given Topsfield), 2d Lieut., Capt.
James Gray’s co.. Col. Marshall’s regt. ; list of officers, commis-
sioned July 5, 1776; regiment raised for defence of Boston; also ,
2d Lieut., Capt. Gray’s co., Col. Thomas Marshall’s regt. ; list of
officers to be commissioned, as returned by Col. Marshall ; or-
dered in Council Sept. 7, 1776, that said officers be commissioned;
also , 2d Lieut., Capt. Gray’s co., Col. Marshall’s regt. ; entered
service May 14, 1776 ; service to Nov. 1, 1776, 5 mos. 18 days ;
also, same co. and regt.; pay roll for Nov., 1776; also, Captain,
Col. Marshall’s regt. ; Continental Army pay accounts for ser-
vice from Jan. 1, 1777 to Jan. 14, 1779 ; reported deranged Jan.
14 (also given Jan. 1), 1779; also, Capt., Col. Marshall’s regt.;
list of officers in the Continental Army; ordered in Council
Jan. 30, 1777, that said officers be commissioned; reported
commissioned Jan. 30, 1777 ; also, Captain, same regt. ; subsis-
tence allowed from date of entering service, Dec. 3, 1776 to Feb.
6, 1777 ; credited with 66 days allowance ; subsistence also al-
lowed for 11 days (220 miles) travel on march from Boston to
Bennington ; also, Capt., 5th co., Col. Marshall’s regt. ; muster
roll of field, staff and commissioned officers for Jan. 1779, dated
West Point ; appointed Nov. 6, 1776 ; reported as on furlough
from Jan. 17, 1779, to April 1, 1779, 73 days, by leave of Gen.
McDougal ; also, Capt., Gen. Lovell’s detachment of militia ;
return of effectives, dated Majorbagaduce, Aug. 12, 1776.

Nathaniel Tiler, priv., Capt. Joshua French’s co., Col. Ed-
ward Wigglesworth’s regt. ; pay abstract for travel allowance,
etc. from Albany home; 220 miles travel allowed said Tiler;
warrant allowed in Council Jan. 30, 1777.

Arciiealaus Town, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., wffiich marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775; service, 5 days.

David TowrN, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia, Col.
John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm of
April 19, 1775 ; service, 3 days.

David Town, Jr., sergeant, Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of mil-
itia, Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the
alarm of April 19, 1775; service 5 days.

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

113

Ephraim Town, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt, which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775; service, 5 days.

Ephraim Town [?], Jr., priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of mil-
itia, Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the
alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days.

Jeremiah Town, Jr., priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775 ; service, 2 days.

Joseph Town, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia, Col.
John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm of
April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days.

Joseph Town, Jr., priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days.

Joshua Town, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia, Col.
John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm of
April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days.

Stephen Town, priv., Capt. Joshua French’s co., Col. Edward
Wigglesworth’s regt. ; pay abstract for travel allowance, etc.,
from Albany home; 220 miles travel allowed said Town; war-
rant allowed in Council Jan. 30, 1777.

Stephen Town, Jr., priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775 ; service, 5 days.

William Town, priv., Capt. Joseph Gould’s co. of militia,
Col. John Backer’s (Baker’s) regt., which marched on the alarm
of April 19, 1775 ; service, 2 days.

Daniel Towne, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775 ; service, 1 day; report-
ed returned home; also, Capt. Perkins’s co., Col. Cogswell’s
regt. ; enlisted Sept. 22, 1776 ; discharged Nov. 16, 1776 ; service,
2 mos. 7 days, including 12 days (250 miles) travel home ; roll
dated North Castle.

Jacob Towne, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775; service 2 1/2 days; re-
ported returned home.

114

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Archelaus Towns, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col.
Jonathan Titcomb’s regt.; marched from home April 25, 1777 ;
service, 2 mos. 8 days, at Rhode Island. Roll certified at Warren.

Joshua Towns, priv., Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses Lit-
tle’s (17th) regt. ; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775 ; enlisted May
6, 1775 ; service, 3 mos. 3 days ; also , company return [probably
Oct., 1775] ; enlisted May 2, 1775 ; age 23 years ; also, Capt. Rob-
ert Dodge’s co., Col. Jonathan Titcomb’s regt. ; marched from
home April 25, 1777 ; service, 2 mos. 8 days, at Rhode Island,
roll certified at Warren.

Stephen Towns, priv., Capt. John Baker’s co., Col. Moses
Little’s (17th) regt. ; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775 ; enlisted
May 15, 1775 ; service, 2 mos. 22 days ; also, company return
[probably Oct., 1775] ; enlisted May 2, 1775; age, 26 years ; also,
order for money in lieu of bounty coat dated Dec. 11, 1775.

John Tuttle, Lynn (also given Topsheld), list endorsed
"Camp at Cambridge June 13th, 1775,” of men belonging to Col.
Samuel Gerrish’s regt. who took the oath in Middlesex Co.,
Jane 10, 1775, required by Congress to be taken by the Mass.
Army, as returned by [Capt.] Samuel Sprague; also, priv., Capt.
Sprague’s (9th) co., Lieut. Col. Loammi Baldwin’s (late Col. Ger-
rish’s) 38th regt. ; muster roll dated Aug. 1, 1775 ; enlisted May
14,1775; service, 2 mos. 23 days; also, pay abstract for Aug.,
1775, dated Chelsea ; also, company return dated Chelsea, Oct.
2, 1775 ; also, order for bounty coat or its equivalent in money
dated Camp at Chelsea, Dec. 30, 1775 ; also, return of men en-
listed by Ensign Abijah Hastings to serve in the Continental
Army for the term of 1 year from the last of Dec., 1775, dated
Dec. 22, 1775. and endorsed "Cap’t R Doges Corny” ; also , priv.,
Capt. Richard Dodge’s co., Col. Baldwin’s (26th) regt. ; abstract
for advance pay for Jan. 1776, etc. ; also, same co. and regt. ; pay
abstract for Feb., March and April, 1776 ; also, list of men raised
to serve in the Continental Army from 1st Essex Co. regt., sworn
to at Salem by John Flagg, 1st military officer of the town of
Lynn ; residence, Lynn; engaged for town of Lynn; joined Capt.
Goodale’s co., Col. Putnam’s regt. ; term, 3 years ; also, list of men
raised to serve in the Continental Army, as returned by Capt.
Perkins and Capt. Nehemiah Herrick ; residence, Topsheld ; en-
gaged for town of Topsheld ; joined Capt. Whipple’s co., Col. Put-
nam’s regt. ; term, 3 years ; also, priv.. Colonel’s co., Col. Rufus
Putnam’s 5th (also given 4th) regt. ; Continental Army pay ac-
counts for service from March 5, 1777, to Dec. 31, 1779 ; also,

TOFSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

115

Capt. John William’s co., Col. Putnam’s regt. ; return dated Al-
bany, Feb. 9, 1778; mustered by John Cushing, Esq. ; also, Capt.
Moses McFarland’s corps of invalids ; Continental Army pay ac-
counts for service from Jan. 1, 1780, to Dec. 31, 1780; term, dur-
ing war ; reported transferred from Col. Putnam’s regt. ; also re-
ported discharged ; also, Capt. McFarland’s co. of invalids sta-
tioned at Boston, Col. Nicola’s regt. ; inspection return dated
Aug. 1, 1780.

William Tuttle, return of men raised to serve in the Con-
tinental Army from Col. Jonathan Cogswell’s (3d Essex Co.) regt. ;
residence, Topsheld ; enlisted for town of Topsfield ; joined Capt.
Whipple’s co., Col. Rufus Putnam’s regt. ; enlistment 3 years ;
also, priv., Capt. Job Whipple’s co., Col. Putnam’s (4th) regt. ;
Continental Army pay accounts for service from May 14, 1777,
to Dec. 31, 1780; also, descriptive list dated West Point, Jan. 10,
1781 ; Light Infantry co., Col. Putnam’s (5th) regt. ; rank, private;
age, 21 years, 1 mo. ; stature, 5 ft. 4 in. ; complexion, dark ; hair,
dark; eyes, dark; residence, Topsfield; enlisted April 14, 1779,
by Col. Putnam ; enlistment, during war ; also, priv., Capt. Jos-
hua Benson’s (Light Infantry) co., Col. Putnam’s regt. ; muster
roll for Jan., 1781, dated Garrison West Point.

Joseph Urine, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Samuel
Johnson’s regt.; Gen. Warner’s brigade; marched from home
Aug. 15, 1777; discharged Dec. 14, 1777; service, 4 mos., in Nor-
thern department ; mileage (275 miles) allowed from Peekskill
home ; company raised from 3d [Essex Co.] regiment.

Stephen Vallue, corporal, (also given Cherry Valley, N. Y.)
Capt. Samuel Page’s co., Col. Benjamin Tupper’s regt. ; Contin-
ental Army pay accounts for service from June 3, 1777, to Dec.
31, 1779 ; residence, Topsfield ; reported as serving 5 mos. 28
days as private, 25 mos. as corporal ; also, corporal, same co. and
regt. ; return dated Jan. 25, 1778 ; residence, Cherry Valley ; en-
listed for town of Cherry Valley ; mustered by Col. Verick, Con-
tinental Muster Master; also, Maj. William Lithgow’s co., Col.
Tupper’s regt. ; muster roll for March, 1779, dated West Point ;
enlisted June 3, 1777 ; enlistment 3 years.

Peter Walker (also given Topsham), list of men mustered
by Nathaniel Barber, Muster Master for Suffolk Co., dated Bos-
ton, Feb. 2, 1777 ; Capt. Blasdale’s co., Col. Edward Wiggles-
worth’s regt. ; reported received State bounty ; also, priv., Lieut.
Colonel’s co., (late) Col. Wigglesworth’s regt. ; Continental Army
pay accounts for service from Jan. 1, 1777, to Dec. 31, 1779; resi-

116

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

dence, Topsfield ; reported promoted to Corporal Aug. 1, 1778,
to Sergeant March 13, 1779 ; also, Capt. Nicholas Blasdel’s co.,
Col. Wigglesworth’s regt.; return dated Camp Valley Forge
Feb. 5, 1778; residence, Topsham; enlisted for town of Tops-
ham; mustered by Maj. Barber, County Muster Master; priv.,
same co. and regt. ; muster roll for May, 1778, dated Camp Val-
ley Forge; reported on command at the Lines; also, same co.
and regt. ; muster roll for June, 1778, dated Camp "Greeage” ;
also, corporal, same co. and regt. ; pay roll for Oct. 1778, swTorn
to at Camp Providence ; also, sergeant, (late) Lieut. Col. Dudley
Coleman’s co., (late) Col. Wigglesworth’s regt. commanded by
Maj. Porter; muster roll for March and April 1779, dated Provi-
dence ; engaged Dec. 22, 1776 ; term 3 years.

John Whelock, priv., Capt. Joshua French’s co., Col. Ed-
ward Wigglesworth’s regt. ; pay abstract for travel allowance
etc., from Albany home ; 220 miles travel allowed said Whelock ;
warrant allowed in Council Jan. 30, 1777.

Ephraim Wildes, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775; service, 2 1/2 days; re-
ported returned home.

Dudley Wildes, company receipt for wages, given to Capt.
John Dodge, dated Camp Winter Hill, June 21, 1778; said Wildes
allowed wages for 29 days in April, and the month of May, 1778.

Moses Wildes, account sworn to in Essex Co., Jan. 14, 1782,
rendered by the Selectmen of Topsfield, of bounties paid said
Wildes and others by the several classes of said town to serve
in the Continental Army for 3 years or during the war ; said
Wildes received bounty of Class No. 8, Thomas Emerson, Chair-
man.

Moses Wildes, priv., Capt. Stephen Perkins’s co., which
marched on the alarm of April 19, 1775; service, 2 1/2 days; re-
ported returned home.

Asa Wilds, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Jonathan
Titcomb’s regt.; marched from home Apr. 25, 1777; service, 2
mos. 8 days, at Rhode Island, including travel (8 days) to and
from camp. Roll certified at Warren.

Dudley Wilds, priv., Capt. John Dodge’s co., Col. Jacob
Gerrishe’s regt. of guards; service from April 1, 1778, to July
— , 1778, 3 mos. 8 days.

Ezra Wilds, priv., Capt. Joseph Eaton’s co., Col. Samuel John-

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

117

son’s regt. ; enlisted Aug. 15, 1777 ; discharged Nov. 29 (also
given Nov. 30), 1777 ; service, 3 mos. 29 days (also given 4 mos.)
in Northern department, including 13 days (260 miles) travel
home. Roll sworn to in Essex Co., also , priv., Capt. John Bod-
well’s co., Col. Jacob Gerrish’s regt. of guards ; service between
April 2, 1778 and July 2, 1778, 2 mos. 13 days, at Cambridge ; also ,
corporal, Capt. John Dodge’s co., Col. Jacob Gerrish’s regt. of
guards ; enlisted Aug. 9, 1778 ; discharged Dec. 16, 1778 ; service,
4 mos. 8 days, at Winter Hill; also, priv., Capt. Benjamin Pea-
body’s co., Col. Jacob Gerrish’s (1st) regt. ; enlisted Oct. 16, 1779 ;
discharged Nov. 22, 1779 ; service, 1 mo. 17 days, near Claverack,
including 11 days (220 miles) travel home. Roll dated at Mid-
dleton. Descriptive list of men raised in Middlesex Co., agree-
able to resolve of Dec. 2, 1780, as returned by Joseph Hosmer,
Supt. of said county; age, 22 yrs. ; stature, 5 ft. 5 1/2 in.; com-
plexion, dark ; hair, dark ; eyes, dark ; occupation, farmer (also
given cordwainer) ; engaged for town of Chelmsford ; engaged
June 12, 1781, term 3 years. Served from March, 1781, to end of
war in Sargent’s co., Crane’s regt. of artillery. — Pension record .

Thomas Willes, account sworn to in Essex Co., Jan. 14, 1782,
rendered by the Selectmen of Topsfield, of bounties paid said
Willes and others by the several classes in said tov/n to serve in
the Continental Army for 3 years or during the war, agreeable
to resolve of Dec 2, 1780 ; said Willes received bounty of Class
No. 3, of which Daniel Boardman was Chairman.

George Williams, return dated Boxford, Dec. 8, 1779, of men
mustered by John Cushing, Muster Master for Essex Co., to join
the Continental Army for the term of 9 mos. agreeable to resolve
of June 9, 1779; engaged for the town of Topsfield.

Thomas Willis, descriptive list of men in Continental ser-
vice; Capt. Turner’s co., Lieut. -Col. John Brooks’ (7th) regt. ;
age, 26 yrs. ; stature, 5 ft. 5 in. ; complexion, light ; hair, light ;
occupation, farmer; residence, Topsfield; engaged for town of
Topsfield; engaged Apr. 16, 1781; term 3 years; also, priv.,
Capt. Asa Coburn’s co., Lieut. - Col. Brooks’s regt. ; muster roll
for May, 1781, dated West Point; enlisted Apr. 16, 1781 ; enlist-
ment, 3 years ; reported promoted to corporal June 1, 1781 ; also ,
corporal, same co. and regt., muster rolls for June -Sept. 1781;
reported on command with Col. Swift in Sept. 1781 ; also, (late)
Capt. Coburn’s co. commanded by Lieut. Levi Parker, Lieut. -
Col. Brook’s regt ; muster roll for Oct. and Nov. 1781, dated
York Hutts; also, 8th co. Lieut. -Col. Brook’s regt.; muster roll

118

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

for Dec. 1781, certified at York Hutts ; also, descriptive list dat-
ed Feb. 20, 1782; Capt. Jonathan Felt’s co., Lieut. -Col. Brook’s
regt. ; age, 26 years ; birthplace, Casthshen Ireland ; residence,
Topsfield; enlisted, Apr. 16, 1781; enlistment, 3 years; also ,
muster rolls for Jan. and Feb. 1782, dated York Hutts; also, 2d
co. ; entry dated Dec. 26, [1783] of an order for wages for May -
Dec.

Joseph York, priv., Capt. Robert Dodge’s co., Col. Samuel
Johnson’s regt., Gen. Warner’s brigade; marched from home
Aug. 15, 1777 ; discharged Dec. 14, 1777 ; service, 4 mos. in Nor-
thern department ; mileage (275 miles) allowed from Peekskill
home ; company raised from 3d (Essex Co.) regt. ; also, 2d ser-
geant ; company receipt for wages, given to Capt. John Dodge,
dated Camp Winter Hill, June 21, 1778 ; said York allowed wages
for 28 days in April, and the month of May 1778 ; also, in Capt.
Dodge’s co., Col. Jacob Gerrish’s regt. of guards; service Apr. 1
1778 -July 1778, 3 mos. 2 days; also, sergeant, Capt. Stephen
Jenkin’s co., Col. Thomas Poor’s regt., engaged July 9, 1778, dis-
charged Jan. 29, 1779 ; service, 7 mos. 4 days, at North River,
including 14 days (280 miles) travel home ; also, same co. and
regt. ; pay roll for Sept. 1778, dated Fort Clinton ; regt. raised
for 8 mos. from time of arrival at Peekskill ; also, same co. and
regt. ; pay rolls for Nov. and Dec. 1778, dated King’s Ferry.

MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS RELATING TO THE
REVOLUTION, IN THE CUSTODY OF THE
TOWN CLERK, TOPSFIELD

Copied by John H. Gould

At a meeting held January 7, 1777. Committee chosen to take
an account of what each person has paid in money towards rais-
ing men for the town since the 19th April 1775. Also what ser-
vice each person has done in said war & at what place; Joseph
Gould, Joseph Cummings, Thomas Porter, Thomas Cummings,
David Perkins, David Towne, Isaac Averell, Thomas Mower, &
Zaccheus Gould.

Meeting adjourned to Feb. 13th. Report not accepted, & Sam-
uel Smith, Israel Clark jr., Eliezer Lake, Solomon Dodge & Dea.
John Gould added to committee.

Meeting adjourned to 29th, then to 25th March. Report. We
have agreed to recommend to sd Inhabitants that those persons
who have advanced money to procure men for the american
Service have the same Refunded to them out of the Treasury of
sd Town namely :

Averell, Isaac 6-13-4

” Jeremiah 4-0-0

” Nathl 12-0-0

Andrews, Joseph 9-11-0

Boardman, Capt. John -18-0
” Daniel 13-6-8
Baker, Jonathan 13-0-0

Batcheider, John 13-6-8

Bradstreet, Sami 9-0-0

” John 6-13-4

Cummings, Joseph jr. 9-0-0
Cummings, Capt. Joseph 9-0-0
Thomas 6-19-4

” Peletiah 4-0-0
Clark, Israel jr. 3-19-6

Dexter, Doct. Richard 13-6-8

Dodge, Lieut. Solomon 6-13-4

Foster, Stephen jr. 1-0-0

Gould, Zaccheus jr. 1-4-0

Hammond, Nathl 1-16-0

Hood, Daniel 2-8-0

Perkins, Capt. Stephen 6-13-4
” Oliver 7-10-0

” Amos 6-13-4

” Samuel 6-13-4

” John jr. 18-0-0

” Robert 9-0-0

” Jacob 10-0-0

” John jr. -12-0

” Jacob -18-0

” William 10-0-0

Peabody, Jacob 9-0-0

Symonds, Thomas

& son Jacob 10-13-4

(119)

120

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Dorman, Ephraim

6-13-4

Tov/ne, Jacob

9-0-0

” Nathl

7-10-0

Wildes, Asa

6-19-4

Emerson, Lieut. Thos

9-0-0

” Ephraim

7-10-0

Foster, Stephen jr.

7-10-0

” Moses

9-0-0

Paid by the South Company.

Bixby, Daniel

13-12-8

Gould, Zaccheus

6-16-4

Balch, Cornelius

7-10-0

” John jr.

6-16-4

” Roger

6-16-4

” Zaccheus

-18-0

Cummings, Lt. Sam’l

3-9-9

” Simon

-18-0

-18-0

” Asa

-18-0

» ft tt

10-0-0

Knight, Enos

10-0-0

Dwinell, Jacob

7-10-0

Lake, Eliezer & Son

13-12-8

” John

7-10-0

Mower, Ins. Thomas

3-9-9

Bartholomew

10-0-0

tt t>

-18-0

Easty, William

7-10-0

Porter, Daniel

1-16-0

” Daniel

-18-0

Peabody, Sert. John

9-0-0

Fisk, Nathl

7-10-0

Towne, Joseph

3-9-9

” Theophelus

10-12-0

” Elijah

3-9-9

Gould, Simon

6-16-4

” William

7-10-0

” Nathl

6-16-4

Woodman, Nathl

6-16-4

Names of men that paid money to hire men to serve in the
Continental army agreeable to the Determination of the Select-
men, Committee of Safty & the Commission Officer May 15,
1777.

Averell, Isaac 6--0--0

” Capt Nathl 2-0-0

” Jacob 3-0-0

” ” jr. 4-0-0

” Jeremiah 6-0-0

Andrews, Joseph 6-0-0

Baker, Capt Thos 10-0-0

Dexter, Dr Rich 10-0-0

Dodge, Lieut Solomon 6-0-0

Dorman, Ephraim 10-0-0

Emerson, Lieut Thos 10-0-0

Foster, Stephen 13-10-0

Gallop, William 1-10-0

Hobbs, Abraham jr 3-0-0

Hood, Nathan

5-0-0

Kneeland

4-0-0

Kimball, Jacob

10-0-0

Low, Nathl

3-0-0

Perkins, John

4-0-0

” Lieut David

10-0-0

” Stephen

4-0-0

” Joseph

10-0-0

Symond, Thomas

5-0-0

Smith, Capt. Sami

10-0-0

Wildes, Amos

5-0-0

Wildes, Thomas

7-0-0

” Nathan

3-0-0

The mens names that was Drafted to serve in the Continen-
tal army and paid their fine, Aug. 22, 1777.

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

121

Averell, Isaac 15--0--0

Andrews, Joseph 15--0--0

Baker, Capt. Thomas 15--0--0
Boardman, Capt. John 15--0--0
Cummings, Joseph, jr. 15--0--0
Dodge, Lieut. Solomon 15--0--0
Lamson, John 15--0--0

Perkins, Amos 15-0--0

Perkins, Oliver 15--0--0

Perkins, Robert 15-0--0

Perkins, Samuel 15--0--0

Perkins, Zebulon 15-0-0

Peabody, Jacob 15-0-0

Symonds, Thomas 15-0-0

Wildes, Ephraim 15-0-0

Wildes, Thomas, paid 7-10-0

We have aggreed to Recommend to sd Inhabitants that there
be no allowance to those Persons that have served in the War
& have since Removed out of this Towne.

We have aggred to Recommend to sd Inhabitants that there
be the following allowances viz, twelve shillings Pr Month to
those that served at Cambridge, Dotchester, & Roxbury viz, for
eight months Namely.

Andrews, Ammasa 4-16-0 Hood, Amos 4-16-0

Baker, John 3d 4-16-0 Hood, John junr 4-16-0

Balch, Israel 4-16-0 Hood, Richard 4-16-0

Balch, Sam11 junr 4-16-0 Kimball, Benju junr 4-16-0

Broadstreet, Henery 4-16-0 Lamson, John junr 4-16-0

Broadstreet, Simon 4-16-0 Low, Amos 4-16-0

Cummings, Josiah 4-16-0 Perkins, Ezra 4-16-0

Gould, Sert Benjn 4-16-0 Perkins, John 4th 4-16-0

Gould, Daniel 4-16-0 Perkins, Thomas 3d 4-16-0

Hobbs, Benjn 4-16-0 Towne, Joshua junr 4-16-0

Hobbs, Isaac 4-16-0 Towne, Stephen 4-16-0

The Commttee aggreed to allow those that went to Capan,
Six Shillings each, Namely.

Cree, Joseph 0-6-0 Knight, Ebenezer 0-6-0

Gallop, William 0-6-0 Perkins, Elijah 0-6-0

Hammond, Nath11 0-6-0 Rea, William 0-6-0

Herrick, Sert Nehemiah 0-6-0 Towne, Archelus 0-6-0

Hodskins, Hezekiah 0-6-0 Towne, Daniel 0-6-0

For those that served at Roxbury six weeks.

Averell, Nath11 jun1' 0-18-0 Kneeland, Aaron 0-18-0

Broadstreet, Sert Samuel 0-18-0 Knight, John 0-18-0

Cree, Joseph 0-18-0 Lake, Eliezer junr 0-18-0

Hammond, Nath11 0-18-0 Perkins, Elisha 0-18-0

Herrick, Sert Nehemiah 0-18-0 Perkins, Elijah 0-18-0

Herrick, Nath11 0-18-0 Towne, Ephraim junr 0-18-0

Plodgskins, Hezekiah 0-18-0 Towne, Joseph junr 0-18-0

Towne, Jacob jun1 0-18-0

122

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

To those at Cambridge 2 months.

Cummings, Daniel 1--4--0 Wildes, Moses 1--4--0

Agreed to allow for the Northern Departments two Pound Pr
month.

Gould, Daniel junr 10--0--0

Agreed to allow two Pound Pr month to those that went to
New York two months, Sept. 1776, namely.

Averell, Amos 4--0--0 Lamson, Josiah 4-0-0

Cree, John 4-0-0 Perkins, Zebulon 4-0-0

Easty, Daniel 4-0-0 Rea, John jun1' 4-0-0

Gould, David 4-0-0 Towne, Daniel 4-0-0

Hood, Benjn 4-0-0 Towne, Ephraim junr 4-0-0

For men that served at Dotchester four months.

Balch, Robert 2-8-0 Herrick, Sert Nehemiah 2-8-0

Dodge. Daniel 2-8-0 Perkins, David junr 2-8-0

To those at Cambridge 1776

Baker, John 3d 1-16-0 Hood, Richard 1-16-0

Gould, Sert Daniel 7 mo 4-4-0 Knight, John (Enos?) 1-10-0

Gould, Samuel 8 mo 4-16-0 Perkins, Thomas 3d 1-16-0

Hobbs, Ser Benjn 1-16-0 Perkins, Thomas 4th 4-4-0

Hood, Amos 1-16-0 Perkins, John 4th 1-16-0

Towne, Archelus 1-10-0

For those that served at New York live months & nine months,
two Pound Pr month

Baker, John 3d 9 mo 18-0-0 Knight, John (Enos?) 5 mo
Gould, Samuel 5 mo 10-0-0 10-0-0

Hobbs, Sert Benjn 9 mo 18-0-0 Perkins, Thomas 3d 9 mo 18-0-0
Hood, Amos 9 mo 18-0-0 Perkins, Thomas 4tb 5 mo 10-0-0
Hood, Richard 9 mo 18-0-0 Perkins, John 4th 9 mo 18-0-0
Gould, Sert Daniel 5 mo 10-0-0 Towne, Archelus 5 mo 10-0-0

December 1776 for men that served at New York 3 months

Averell, Daniel 3-12-0 Perkins, Thomas junr 3-12-0

Hood, Sert Joseph 3-12-0 Smith, Sert Sam11 3-12-0

Money Paid, not made use of, for hiring men in the war Old
Tenor 12-11-6.

Joseph Gould Per Order, Committee,

Erors Excepted

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

123

Aug. 13, 1777. The names of the men that was Drafted to re-
inforce the american army at the northward for tree months,
viz

Foster, Stephen jr
Hogkins, Hezekiah
Hubbard, Elnathan
Hovey, Ivory

Hobbs, David
Lefavor, John jur
Perkins, Archelus
Wildes, Dudley

November 3d 1777, The Mens names that was Drafted to
guard the army under General Burgoyn who surrendered to
General Gates, they wrent to Charleston viz.

Averell, Amos
Averell, Jacob junr
Baker, Moses
Batchelder, John
Cree, Stephen
Hobbs, Abraham junr

Hood, Benja
Kneeland, Aaron
Lamson, John junr
Perkins, Lieut David
Perkins, Stephen junr
Towne, Daniel
Tyler, Nath11

Capt John Bordman, Messers John Perkins junr and Peletiah
Cummings, hired John Cummings to Serve in the Contineal army
During the war.

Messrs John Lamson Joseph Cummings & Thomas Cummings
hired John Perkins 4th to serve in the Army for three years.

Mr. Israel Clark, hired David Clark to serve in the army for
three years.

Topsfield February ye 2 ad 1776, then I Samuel giles have
Receved of Zacheus ghould of Topsfield three dolers for which
I promise to Proceed in the Publick Service in the Continental
army for the said Zacheus ghould which sum I have Receved as
witness my hand Samuel giles.

Topsfield May 19 1776. Then Received of David Balch twou
Pound eight Shillings Lawful money for Enlisting Into the Con-
tental army for Duen for him a turn in the army till the Last
Day of December Next to a turn for him By me John Knight

Topsfield May 16, 1777. Then Redd of Nehemiah Herrick
twenty five Dolers for to Done a Half a turn in the Contantal
armey till jenary Next 1778. Reed By me Cornelas Cree

Topsfield April 25th 1777, then Reed of Nehemiah Herrick
twelve Shilings & four Pene, Lawful which is Dou to me for my
travlans money to Rod island, By me Archelaus Towne

124

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Topsfield May 19th 1777. Reed of Elisha Wildes ten pounds
as a fine for not Serving as a Soldier in the Contenantal army
when Drafted Per Stephen Perkins

For the Selectmen of Topsfield. These Certify that the Num-
ber of men that marched of the 16th Day of December 1776 for
a Reinforcement of the Contineltal army under the Command
of Capt John Dodge in Coll Timothy Pickriens Regt Consisted
of Fifty five men, Whose Baggage was Carryed by Mr Francie
Porter from Danverce to Danbury.

Attest Topsfield May 5, 1777. Sami Smith junr.

Topsfield May 15 1782. Recvd of Isaac Averell Constable the
sum of twelve pound Sixteen shillings in full for six munch Ser-
vices in the Contantal army for Cornelius Cree serves, I sa Reed
by me John Cree

Topsfield May 20 1782. Reed of Mr Danl Estay the sum of
seventeen shillings & Eleven Pence in full for this Propotion of
all Cash & Charges Risen or arising in Procuring William Perk-
ins to serve as a Soldier in the Contenental Army for time or
space of three years Agraeble to a Resolve of the General Court
of the first Day of March 1782, for the No 1.

Topsfield Septr 12 day 1782 Recvd of Isaac Averell Constable
the sum of twelve pound sixteen shillings in full for six month
serves in the Contentail army in the year 1780, for his sun David
Perkins, I say Reved by me Moses Perkins 12-16

Mar 7, 1780, voted to allow for three men 6 mo. Cree, Joseph,
Gage, Robert, McKenzie, Philip, to R I, 450£ and for five men
to Springfield, Andrews, Lilburn, Gould, Samuel, Middleton,
Richd Perkins, Wm & Wilson George, nine months 750£ & to al-
low the som 644.-00 for seven men in 1779 viz, Cree, Asa, Cum-
mings, Daniel, Hood, Daniel, Hood, John junr, Peabody, John junr,
Perkins, Moses 3d, Smith, Sam1 junr.

Topsfield June 10 1778. State of Mass Bay Dr for Bounty &
milage to Fish Kill on Hudson River, 240 miles.

Cree, John 30-0-0, age 40, Stature 5 - 8 Complexion Dark
Fisher, Daniel, 30-0-0, Rejected

Hood, Daniel, ” age 36, Stature 5-11 ” Light

Hood, John jr ” ” 19, ”5-8

McKenzie, Philip, ” ” 22, ” 5-5 ” Dark

Perkins, William ” ”22, ” 5-3 ” Dark

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

125

Topsfield July 31 1778. We the subscribers Certifie the we
have Receved of the Selectmen of Topsfield the sum of fourteen
Pound Each man of us it being a bounty Paid by the Selectmen
of said Town agreeable to an act of the General Cort Dated June
the 12 1778.

Cummings, Asa 14--0--0 Cummings, Elijah

Cummings, Daniel 14--0--0 Hood, Samuel

Topsfield Oct 29 1779 State of Mass Bay Dr Bounty & milage
to Clavernack on Hudson River 231 miles.

Cummings, Daniel
Cree, John
Hood, Daniel
Hood, John jr
Hood, Joseph
Peabody, John
Perkins, Moses 3d
Smith, Sam1 junr

30-0-0 23-0-0
30-0-0 23-0-0
30-0-0 23-0-0
30-0-0 23-0-0
30-0-0 23-0-0
30-0-0 23-0-0
30-0-0 13-0-0
30-0-0 23-0-0

The State of Mass Bay Dr to the Selectmen of the Town of
Topsfield for travel money Paid to the following Persons that
served as militia three month agreeable of the Great and Gener-
al Court Passed the 22d of June 1780 ordering six shillings Per
mile to be Paid Each Solder from his home to Claverac 220 miles.

Andrews, Lilburn 66-0-0 Gould, Emerson 66-0-0

Balch, Samuel 66-0-0 Hood, John jr 66-0-0

Cree, Stephen 66-0-0 Hood, Moses 66-0-0

Cummings, Elijah 66-0-0 Lefavor, Joseph 66-0-0

Gallop, Enos 66-0-0 Perkins, David 66-0-0

Gould, Benjamin 66-0-0 Thomas, Moses 66-0-0

Towne, Stephen 66-0-0

The following Persons Returned as Continantal Six months
men agreeable to Resolve of the Great General Court of this
State ordering six shilling Per mile to Be Paid Each Soeldr from
his home to Springfield

Cree, Cornelius 36-0-0 Gould, Samuel 36-0-0

Cree, Joseph 36-0-0 Perkins, David 36-0-0

McKenzie, Philip 36-0-0

The following men are Misted to serve for the Town of Tops-
field in the State of Mass Bay in the Contineltal army for the
term of three years or During the war 1777.

Stephen Perkins Capt. Nehemiah Herrick Capt.
Essex ss Feby 18 1778. Sworn before John Baker Jus Peace

126

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Town Captain Colonel Time

Topsfield Fairfield, Wigglesworth During war
Whipple, I. Putnam
” White,

Hogskins, Biglo
” Thomas, Marshel
Buxton Lane, Alden

Sheldon

David Clark
John Cummings
Joseph Peabody
John Perkins
Foster Emerson
John Egley
John Wilson

Nathan Woodman jr. ” ”

James Reed Boston Craft,

Thos Dupe

Otes Robins St. Georges Buxton, Sherbum

Enoch Baley Trancient Lt. Brown, Lee

Thomas Mitchell Boston Horton, Crain

Wm Thompson ” Frothingham, Crain

Willm Rea Topsfield Page, Francis?

Sam11 Giles
George Nelson
Nath11 Herrick
Amasa Andrews
Seth Peabody
John Tuttle
Moses Thomas

Sam11 Fall Peporalborough Lane,

Joss Page Trancient person ”

Dan1 Merrill Scarborough Fairfield, Wigglesworth
Moses Perkins 3d Topsfield Whipple, Putnam
Cornelous Cree,

Israel Mansfield Esq Marblehead

Suard Brimblicom

Clem Mulden

Thos Moor

John Car rage

Nath11 Goldsmith

Jno Canada

3 y

Fairfield, Wigglesworth During War

Whipple, Putnam

Marsh, Marshel
Alden

3 y

8 mo

Stephen Perkins') cPiPCtmen
Thomas Mower en

John Peabody ( Tonsfield
Israel Clark jun J iopstieid

Sworn Jan 29 1776, Sami Smith Town Clerk

REVOLUTIONARY DOCUMENTS

State of the Massachusetts Bay. To the Honb the Councel and
House of Representives in General Court assembled at Boston,
1777.

The Petition of Amos Dwinel Plumbley Sheweth that your
Humble Petitioner was an Inlisted Soulder in the year 1776 in
Cap1 Bolsters Company in Col. Eber Larnard Reg1 and in the In-
campment at New York and at a Battle at New Chester your
Petitioner left a two cotton Shirts & a pair of Stockens to the
value of one pound ten Shillings, further more your Petitioner
would Humbley Shew that after he was Dismest was taken Sick
upon his return home and Got as far as Oxford in Worcester
County and could Travel no further Whereupon he sent to his
Uncal David Dwinel of Sutton to Bring him to his House where
(viz) at sd Davids he lay sick about Eight weeks afterwards
your Petitioner being but in part Recovered his Health Hired a
Horse and man to Carey him home to Meddleton in this State
where your Petitioner was under the Docters hands and unable
for Labour about three weeks, the whole of your Petitioner Ex-
pence in his Sickness with the value of Cloath lose.

Is fifteen pound fifteen Shillings as may appear by the ac-
count and Recept herewith exhibited Your Humble Petitioner
Humly Prays your Hons would take this Petition under your
wise consideration and order the Treasur of this State to pay
out of the Publick Treasurer to your Petitioner or his order the
above Said Sum of fifteen pound fifteen Shilling and as Bound
in Duty Shall ever pray Amos Dwinel

Reed of Amos Dwinel for bordeng G. Dwinels one month when
he was sick at Middleton for The month of March 1777 and
for the paing The Docter Bill and totel Three Weaiks Bord.

Reed By me Jonathan Knight

Rec’d of Amos Dwinel for feching said Dwinel from Oxford
and to Borden and Nuseng eight weaiks and fetcheng £ s
The Docter 8: 11

to one man and horse to Middletown 2 : 8

Reed By Mr David Dwinel totel 10 : 19

The above said Amos Dwinel Lost one Pair of Shirts in the
Retreet from New York Sittey £ s

the 17 day of September 1776 1 : 10

Sum totel 15 : 15

(127)

128

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Worcester, ss. January 29 : 1778.

The above named David Dwinel personally appeared and made
Oath that the above articles exhibited as for his just and True
account

Sworn Before me Charles Brigham, Jus. Peas.
Amos Dwinel
Mr. Coffin
Mr. Learned
Mr. Stone

Oct0 7th 1783 withdraw :

Mass. Archives , Vol. 183, p. 278

The accompt of Archalus Dwinel In Capt. Isaac Bolsters Com-
pany in Col° Larnards Regement.

In the Contnantal Service in year 1776

£ s d

To one great Coat Lost at Bast Chester In the Retreat 6 0 0

one Shirt 6/ 0 6 0

one pair of Stockings 6/ 0 6 0

one havrsack 8/ 0 8 0

£7-0-0 £7-0-0

Isaac Bolster, Cap1

Worcester, ss. January 28 : 1778.

The above named Archalus Dwinel appeared and made Solemn
Oath these articles he Lost.

Sworn Before me Charles Brigham Jus. P.

Mass. Archives , Vol. 183, p. 278.

Petition of Stephen Perkins & Solomen Dodge
Coll Johnson
Coll Walker
Cap1 Gardner

to consider of matter ate large.

To the Honourable Council of the State of Massachusetts Bay
and House of Representatives in General Court assembled
March the 3d 1778

The Petition of Stephen Perkins and Solomon Dodge Hum-
bly Sheweth — That they was appointed to the Command as
Captain and first Lieutenant of the 4th Company in the third
Regiment of Millitia in the County of Essex in the year 1776
Sence which we have endeavored to obey to the uttmost of our
power Every resolution of the general Court for raising men for
the defence of this and the united States of America, But so it
was, that when the resolve passed for raiseing one seventh part
of the men in each town to compleat an army for three years or

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

129

dureing the war we was not able to Inlist our Cota of men in
our Company for that Service. W e then made Sundry Drafts
of men, but they all paid their fines, which amounted to such
a sum, that your Petitioners apprehended they had money
Enough to hire the men they then wanted, of their number, we
procured all but three as we suppose, But your Petitioners being
advanced in years and in a poor State of health, and being often
Called upon to march with part of our Company to places of
greate distance which we ware not able to preforme we thought
it our duty to ask the Honble Council to grant us a dismission
from that Service, which we did, which the Honble Council grant-
ed in the month of January Last, Sence which a Resolve passed
the general Court that all otficiers that had not Compleated
their Cota of the Continental army by the first day of March
Instant Should be presented for their fines agreeable to a Resolu-
tion of the general Court in the month of August Last. But
by reason of the Inhanced prize that men now ask, their is not
money enough raised in the Company to procure the men that
are wanted for our Cota, and as your Petitioners have now no
authority to make any more Drafts in said Company either for
men or mony, and as we apprehend their is no other person or
set of men that Can be subjected to pay a fine on that account,
or that have power to make any further drafts for them men in
said Company, the Second Lieutenant being in the Service
from home, your Petitioners Therefore Plumbly prays that your
Honor will take their Circumstances into your wise consider-
ation and point out Som way Either by Impowering the Select-
men and Comtee of Safty &c to procure said men that are now
wanted in sd Company or otherwise as in your wisdom shall
judge proper to direct, so that your Petitioners may not be sub-
jected to pay a fine when it is not in their power to prevent it.
And your Petitioners as in duty bound shall ever pray.

Dated Topsfield Stephen Perkins

March 2d 1778 Solomon Dodge

State of Massachusetts Bay
In Council March 5th, 1778

In the Petition of Capt. Stephen Perkins and Lieu1 Solomon

Dodge

Resolved that the Prayer of said Petition be Granted, and that
the Selectmen and Committee of Correspondence &c of the
Town of Topsfield for the time being, be and they hereby are
impowered and directed to proceed immediately to the corn-
pleating the number of men yet wanted for the Continental

130

TOPSFIELD IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Army in the fourth Company of Militia in the third regiment in
the County of Essex, by drafting or otherwise as the resolutions
of the General Court direct ; and the said Cap1 Perkins and Lieu1
Dodge be and they hereby are directed immediately to pay into
the hands of the said Selectmen & Committee all such sums of
money as they may have received of said Company, or any in-
dividual of said Company & yet remaining in their hands for
the purposses above mentioned, while they had the Command
of said Company.

Sent down for Concurrence
Jno Avery

Dy Secy

Mass . Archives > Vol. 184, p. 15-16

ESSEX COUNTY QUARTERLY COURT RECORDS
RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

ABSTRACTED BY GEORGE FRANCIS DOW

(< Continued from Volume XXVII, page 96)

In the case of Capt. Richard More of Salem v. William Dodg,
jr., Mr Jeremy Hubbard of Topsfield deposed that he heard di-
vers times Thom. Tuck say that he and Thomas Picton took the
bell. This was when deponent was minister at Bass river, now
Beverly. Sworn in court-— Nov. 25, 1679*

John Reddington served on the grand jury at Ipswich Court
held Mar. 30, 1680.

Thomas Perkins v. Daniell Clarke. Verdict for plaintiff, the
fence to be set up and maintained by defendant and six bushels
of Indian corn damage.

Writ : Dea. Thomas Perkins v. Daniel Clarke ; for not setting
up and maintaining a sufficient fence, according to agreement
when he bought the land ; dated Mar. 24, 1679-80 ; signed by
John Redington, for the court and the town of Topsfield ; and
served by William Perkins, constable of Topsfield.

Thomas Perkins’ bill of cost, 21i. 9s. 4d.

Letter of attorney, dated Mar. 27, 1680, given by Thomas
Perkins, sr., of Topsfield to Sergt. Edmond Bridges of Salem.
Wit : John Gould, sr., and Sarah Gould. Sworn, Mar. 30, 1680,
before Robert Lord, cleric.

Thomas Baker testified that Clark and deponent’s brother
Golde had a conference about a fence which he was to have set
up. Clark said he had given Golde lOli. and Gould said it was
but 51i., etc. Sworn in court.

Copy of deed, dated Jan. 17, 1664, given by Zacheus Goold and

Thomas Baker, both of Topsfeild, for 341i. paid by Bates to

Daniell Clarke of Topsfield, 14 a. in Topsfield, bounded "with a
brooke towards the south & a high waye towards the east, &
the land of Luke Wakelin towards the north & the land of Bar-
zila Barker, toward the west : And one pcell of meddow con-
tayning by estimation six acres be it more or lesse lying in Tops-

*The date at the end of each paragraph or case is the date of the session of the
Court.

(131)

132

COURT RECORDS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

feild, or the Villadge, bounded with the land of Zacheus Goold
towards the south & Thomas Perkins land towards the north,
& the meddow of Luke Wakelin towards the east.” Wit : John
Goold and Thomas Gidding. Acknowledged, Mar. 28, 1665, be-
fore Samuell Symonds. Copy made by Hilliard Veren, recorder.

Copy of deed, dated Mar. 8, 1663-4, given by Zacheus (his
mark) Gould of Topsfield to Thomas Perkins of Topsheld, land
partly in Rowley Village and partly in Topsfield, for lOOii.,
bounded by Zacheus Gould on the southwest, Daniel Black on
the southeast, the water course on the northeast and Topsfield
common toward the north, and meadow of Robert Smith, Luke
Wakelin and Francis Bates on the west; the other parcel was
all that meadow in Rowley Village, on the west end of the
Crooked pond, so called, and surrounded by land of Zacheus
Gould, also a right of way for said Thomas where it would be
most convenient. Wit: John Redington and John Perley. Ac-
knowledged, Mar. 30, 1668, before Daniel Denison. Recorded
June 24, 1679, in the records of land for Essex at Ipswich, book
4, page 268, by Robert Lord, recorder.

John Gould and John How testified that they saw the writing
in Danil Clark's hand, and Gould told Clark that if he had the
writing from him, he stole it. Sworn in court.

John How and Peter Shomway deposed that they measured
the fence and found it to be about threescore rods, and appraised
the damage in Perkins' corn as six bushels. They judged that
the swine came in through the fence now in controversy, there
being a pitiful hedge, which is no fence by lav/. The fence to
be set up was worth 2s. per rod, as five rail fence cost at that
time. Sworn in court.

John How deposed that when Ensign John Gould demanded
of Daniil Clark his deed, he owned that he had received of
Clarke 51i. in consideration of the fence which the latter was to
maintain. Sworn in court .—Mar. 30, 1680.

Mr. Jeremiah Hobart was fined upon his presentment.

William Averall testified that upon Topsfield town meeting
day near night after the meeting, several of the neighbors went
up to Mr. Huberd's and deponent noticed that he was displeased
with the town for not accepting the propositions he had made
to them. There was some mention made of the parsonage and
Mr. Hubberd said "I would that parsonage ware a fire and scm
of them int.” To which deponent '’made soe hould as to Reply :
Sir : I hope you doe not spake now Just as you thinke.” Sworn
in court.

COURT RECORDS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

133

Isaac Cumins, sr., deposed that Mistress Huherd replied to
William Averall, "Noe, he Does not mean see.” Sworn in court.

Joseph Towne and Micali Donill deposed that Mr. Huberd
said at Towne’s house that the town would never have a quiet
town meeting until they had given him half the parsonage.
Sworn in court.

John Franch and Pheby Franch deposed that being at the
dwelling house of Mr. Jeremiah Koubard, and having much dis-
course about the synod meeting and church affairs and power,
deponent told him that if he had told them that he had been of
that mind before he was ordained, he woud never have been
ordained in Topsfield. Then Mr. Houbard spoke cursing words
"and wished the pox had you and all that were of your mind.”
Sworn in court. — Mar. 30, 1680.

Upon a petition from Topsfield as to who should appoint a
place for keeping the town stock of ammunition, court judged
that it was chief officer’s place to do it. — Mar. 30, 1680.

Zacheus Perkins, being brought before this court for burglary
in breaking up Tho. Maule’s shop and stealing several times
from others, and confessing, was ordered to pay 25011. and the
goods to Maule ; 2411. to Mr. Batter of Salem, and the remnant
of black double prunella seized by the constables; to Michall
Donnill, three bushels of wheat, four and a half bushels of bar-
ley, and a half bushel of Indian corn ; to Goodman Robison of
Topsfield, 15s. in money and the gold ring found with him; to
Mr. Joseph Whiting, 30s. in money and the return of the silver
cup stolen ; to John Redington, 9s. For his burglary, said Perk-
ins was to be branded upon the forehead with the letter B, as
the lav/ determines, and for his theft from Mr. Batter, it being
above 10s., he was to be openly whipped. For his other thefts
he was fined 51i. He was to be whipped and branded on the 6th
instant, immediately after lecture.

Search warrant, dated Apr. 8, 1680, for goods of Thomas Maul
of Salem which were stolen from him, signed by Daniel Denison.

Thomas Maule’s bill of cost for searching for the goods.

Mr. Batter’s bill of cost, 16s.

Letter of attorney, dated Apr. 29, 1680, given by Joseph Whit-
ing of Lynn to Mr. John Gould of Topsfeild. Wit: Andrew
Mansfeild and Joseph Far.

Thomas Mawle and wife Naomy testified 13:2: 1680 that the
night before election in 1679 their shop was broken into. They
had on hand lOOli. worth of choice goods, which were stolen.
Affirmed "in ye presence of him who made all things <& knowes
all things : before whom we must give account of all things,”
before Wm. Hathorne, assistant.

134

COURT RECORDS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

Hannah Sibbley, aged about seventeen years, and Jonathan
Flint, aged about sixteen years, deposed, 13:2: 1680, they then
being servants to Thomas Mawle, that they had several hundred
pounds’ worth of new goods in a pile and when they went to bed
about nine o’clock they left them in the shop. The goods were
silks, ribbons, cambriques, hollands, fine serges, etc. Sworn,
25:2: 1680, before Wm. Hathorne, assistant.

Invoice of stolen goods : 4 yds. of rich dukape at 12s., 21i. 8s. ;
4 yds. of ditto dukape, at 12s., 21i. 8s. ; 7 yds. ot Cambrick, and 1
M 3-4 pins at 3s., 1 li. 2s. ; 8 yds ditto Cambrick, Hi. 18s. ; 2 1-4
yds. of holan and 2 yds. of galum, 10s. 6d. ; 4 yds. of locaram,
13 yds. galum, 10s. 3d. ; 1 3-4 yds. of locaram, 11 yds. galum, 5s. ;
2 1-2 yds. of kors ditto hollan and 6 knives, 8s. ; Cambrick, lli.
10s. ; 8 yds. fine white foustoun, 10s. ; 17 1-2 yds. mix prenelah
and 3 doz. silver bottons, lli. 16s. 6d. ; 13 1-4 yds. Camlet and 3
1-2 gros gimp buttons, lli. 10s. ; 6 1-2 brod shearg salune, 1 ko-
man kaces, 18s. 6d. ; 4 yds. of serge, 9 pare of gloves, 15s. ; 5 yds.
porstotana and bondle of silk, 12s. ; 2 yds. 1-2 of black prenelah
and 1 knif, 5s. ; 2 1-2 of paragon, 5s. ; 1 1-4 of serge, 14s. ; 3 3-4
of Cambrick, 10s. ; 1 coat of mix prenelah, 15s. ; 1 pare of briches
lind of black stuf, 5s. ; 1 Remnant of serge, 2s. ; 1 black silke
skarf, 5s. ; 1 blu silk skarf 2 yds. long, 2s. ; 1 Remnant of ditto
of blu silk, 2 s. ; 3-4 yds. of slace clauf and 1 m. pins, 2s. ; 1 1-4
cambrick and 8 yds. of blu ribb, 6s. ; 57 yds. 1-2 of 4 d. & 6d. red
black & gren, blue and white ribbin, 1 li. ; 2 pare of gloves,
kardsbottons, Is. 6d. ; 1 yd. prenelah ; 4 yds. Colard linn., 4s. ; 1
Remannt prenelah, buttons, silk and thread, 3s. ; total, 221i. 2s.
9d.

Theophilus Wilson and Nath. Rust testified that Perkins con-
fessed that he stole several things from his father and Mikel
Dunil of Topsfeld, Mr. Batter of Salem, Mr. Whitton of Lin, Mr.
Maul, Dority Robason of Topsfield and John Readintcn.

Zacheus Perkins’ confession, Apr. 9, 1680, before Daniel Den-
ison: that at May election he met in Wenham a Frenchman
named Nicolas Jennings whom he knew at Narriganset but had
not seen more than once or twice. He invited him to go to
Salem to drink. They went to Salem in the evening and alight-
ed in the street near Mr. Croad’s, leading their horses into an
orchard where Nicholas bade him tarry and look after the horses.
After two hours, Nicholas returned and bade him go along
with him and they came to Mr. Mall’s shop where the door was
open. Nicholas went in and brought out a bundle of goods
which he gave Perkins which he took home to Topsfeild. Some
he had disposed of. Nicholas brought out also a sack of goo

COURT RECORDS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

135

which he laid on his horse. Soon they parted as they heard the
watch coming, Perkins going to Topsfield and Nicholas to Mar-
blehead, and Perkins had not seen him since. The latter said
he found the silver cup at Lin and the ring at Topsfeild on the
street. Thomas Mai was bound to prosecute.

Letter of attorney, dated Salem, May 3, 1680, given by Edm.
Batter to Mr. Edward Flint or Mr. Walter Fairfield to appear
for him, as he could not go to court and did not think it worth
his labor. Perkins had stolen from him a piece of double pru-
nella, costing him 61i. 10s. at Boston, he having cut off three or
four yards ; also 20 yds. of Irish serge at 4s. per yd., about a
a yard wide; total, above lOli. in silver. — May 4, 1680.

Phillip Knight v. Thomas Cave. Verdict for defendant. Ap-
pealed to the next Court of Assistants. Said Knight bound, with
Bray Wilkins and Jonathan Knights as sureties.

Writ: Phillip Knight v. Thomas Cave; for not joining with
him in the division of 100 acres of land which they bought joint-
ly of Mr. John Ruck, said land being partly in Topsfield and
partly in Salem, according to deed dated July 24, 1672, for which
they were to pay 601i. sterling, said Knight having paid his 301i. ;
dated June 21, 1680; signed by Hilliard Veren, for the court and
town of Salem ; and served by Henry Skerry, marshal of Salem,
by attachment of land, and left the summons with his children
and wife.

Philep Knight’s bill of cost, lli. 13s. 6d.

Thomas Raves’ bill of cost, lli. 4s.

Jonathan Knight, aged about thirty-eight years, testified that
William Nickols, sr., said at Mr. Keysar, sr.’s house in May, that
Phillip Knight should have fifty-nine acres of land according to
agreement. Ruth Knight testified to the same. Sworn in court.

Bray Wilkins, aged about sixty-eight years, and Jonathan
Knight, aged about thirty-eight years, testified that they and
William Nicolls of Topsfeild were present when Leift. Tho. Put-
nam laid out this land after the purchase, fifty-nine acres each,
and said Putnam agreed to give them a writing to that effect,
with those present as witnesses, but they had never seen any
writing. Phillip Knight doubted if he had as much laid out as
Putnam told him, and later sent again for deponents while Na-
thaniell Putnam and William Ireland, sr., measured it and found
it to be but forty-one acres, and at the same time found Cave’s
land to be about seventy acres. Sworn in court.

John Rucke certified, at Salem, Mar. 20, 1679-80, that he had
received pay from Philip Knight for his half of the 100 acres ly-
ing near old Nickoalses. Wit: Bray Wilkins and Jonathan
Knight.

136

COURT RECORDS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

Thomas Putnam, aged about sixty-four years deposed that he
knew nothing about it except the writing which he gave in to
Maj. Gen. Denison, which writing was made in the woods that
day. Sworn in court.

William Ireland, sr., and Nathaniell Putnam certified that they
found that Cave had, with what he had sold, eighteen or nine-
teen acres of land more than Knight, besides a tract lying along
the side of Hathorn’s meadow. Sworn by Ireland at Boston,
Mar. 19, 1679-89, before Elisha Hutchinson, commissioner, and
by Putnam in court.

Copy of agreement, dated 2 mo. 1674, between Thomas (his
mark) Cave and Philip Knight, for a farm bought of Mr. John
Rucke of Salem, partly in Salem and partly in Topsfeild ; that
Knight was to have 48 1-2 acres in the northeast end, bounded by
a bound tree of John Putnam's on the northeast, John Robinson’s
and William Hobbs’ land on the north, to a bound tree between
Thomas Putnam and Willrn. Hobs westerly, then Thomas Put-
nam’s land on the west, said Knight’s line running southerly a-
bout 80 rods to a heap of stones and a stake, then crosses the
farm easterly about 100 rods to John Putnam’s line on the east
side to a heap of stones and a stake, then northward about 80
rods to John Putnam’s tree ; Cave was to have the breadth of the
farm on the south of Knight’s land, as it lay between land cf
Thomas Putnam on the west and John Putnam on the east till
said Cave’s land comes to a swamp that lay southward from his
house and joins John Putnam’s line where Philip Knight has a-
bout eleven acres, "first from John Putnam’s line on the east, on
the North side the swamp the sd Knight is to run from the heape
of rocks in John Putnam line westerly by the swamp 18 rod to a
heap of rocks, 2dly the sd knight is to run from the heape of rocks
in John Putnams line on the North side the swamp, cross the
swamp southerly as John Putnams line runs 52 rod to a heap of
stones Sly from thence westwerd 38 rod to a little white oake
marked on foure sides 41y from thence Northerly 44 rod to the
southwest corner of the swamp to a heape of stones, & from
thence eastward downe the swamp 20 rod to a heap of stones &
from thence Northerly cross the swamp about 8 rod more or less
to the heape of stones on the North side the swamp next Thomas
Caves house ; that is 18 rod from John Putnam line ; further the
sd Knights land on the south side the swamp, the v/ay is to lye
from the Northeast corner of the sd Caues feild as it is now
fenced by the east side of the feild to the Northwest Corner of
the sd knights 11 akers of land, the sd knight is to sett up &
maintaine a good gate or good barrs where the way comes at

COURT RECORDS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

137

that end next to the sd Knights house. All the rest of the farme
is Thomas Caues.” Wit: Thomas Putnam and Willm. (his
mark) Nicols. Sworn, June 24, 1680, before Daniel Denison.

Deed, dated July 24, 1672, given by John Rucke of Salem, to
Phillip Knights and Thomas Cave of Will’s Hill, so called, in
Salem, husbandmen, for 601i., 100 acres of land in Topsfeild and
Salem, bounded northerly by William Hobbs and John Robbin-
son, easterly by John Putnam, southerly by Hathorn’s great
meadow and westerly by Leift. Thomas Putnam. Wit : Jonathan
Knight and Hilliard Veren. Acknowledged, Mar. 20, 1677-8, be-
fore Wm. Hathorne, assistant. — June 29, 1680.

Samuel Howlett served on the grand jury at Ipswich Court,
Sept. 28, 1680.

Daniell Hovey, Jr. served on the jury of trials at Ipswich
Court Sept. 28, 1630.

John How v. Mr. Richard Collicutt and Mr. Nathaniel Green-
wood, executors and overseers of the will of Hester Seers. For
refusing to deliver a feather bed. Special verdict. If two single
testimonies and the plaintiff’s affirmation of the woman’s prom-
ise were as valid as a will, they found for the plaintiff, the best
bed and bedding ; if not, for the defendant. Court found for
the plaintiff. Appealed to the next Court of Assistants.

Sarah Gould, aged about thirty-nine years, deposed, that be-
ing at Boston with Goodman How about four years since, she
lodged at his kinsman, Hanery Mason’s. She slept with Mason’s
wife and Goodman How with Planery Mason, and she heard
How ask Mason to give him the feather bed he lay in that night.
Mason spoke so low that she could not hear him plainly but she
understood that he consented. Three months after they went
to Boston again but Mason had been dead six weeks. The wid-
ow brought her husband’s will to How to read and she said that
her husband had told her to give him the feather bed although
it was not in the will which she promised to do. Mason’s wife
was John How’s own cousin. Sworn in court.

In the will of Hester Seers of Wobourne, dated Mar. 2, 1679-
80, and proved Sept. 2, 1680, she bequeathed to her brother Isaac
How’s children £5 ; to her brother Abraham How’s son Abra-
ham’s children, 50s. ; to her brother Israel How’s children, 50s. ;
etc.

Rebecka Howlett v. William Howlett. Verdict for defendant.

Thomas Dorman deposed that he heard Ensign Houlat say
that he had borrowed money of his wife, who, he said, had sold
some of her geese and turkeys for money. Deponent told
him that his wife’s geese and turkeys were his wife’s when he

138

COURT RECORDS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

pleased. Houlat replied, "no, I medle not with the geese nor
turke’s for thay are hurs for she hath bene and is a good wife
to me." Sworn in Court.

Isack Comins, Jr. and Samuell Kingsbury deposed that they
living with Daken Houlet and having a considerable part of
honey, gave the combs to Daken Houlet’s wife for her own use,
"that is to say his last wife." Sworn in Court.

John Comings was fined upon his presentment.

Warrant, dated Sept. 16, 1680, for the appearance of John How
and Jacob Towne, as witnesses in John Comings’ presentment,
signed Robert Lord, cleric. No return made.

Ensign John Gould was bound for the appearance of his Indian
when the Court called for him.

Zachary Curtice and Elizabeth Bridges, for miscarriages,
were fined.

Daniell Clark had his license renewed for a year. — Sept. 28,
1680.

Jacob Towne served on the jury of trials at Ipswich Court,
Mar. 29, 1681.

Jacob Towne, aged about fifty years, deposed that about thirty-
five or six years ago his father, William Towne, bought twenty
acres of land of Jeffery Massey of Salem and paid for it in wheat
the same year. Said land bordered upon a swamp at the south,
was common belonging to Salem at Ryal Side, and ran fourscore
rods to the northward. When his father removed from Salem
in 1651, he sold this lot to Nathaniel Felton of Salem. Sworn
in Court.

John Lampson v. John Sady. Slander of his wife, Martha
Lampson. Withdrawn.

John Sady and wife Elizabeth confessed that whereas they
reported through misinformation or their own misconjectures
that Martha Lampson, wife of John Lampson, stole a fan from
them, they had wronged her and were sorry for it. Wit : Jno.
Lee and John Gould.

Tobijah Perkins was sworn constable for Topsfield.

"Whereas Mr. Jere. Hubbert of Topsfield hath at severall
times, and in severall places, both publickly and privately
uttered severall reproachfull and scandalous speeches both
agaynst ye elders & messengers of ye church who met ye last
summer at Topsfield, and also agaynst ye Inhabitants of Tops-
field, all or some, I thought good in ye behalfe of myselfe and
fellow elders to make complaynt thereof to this Honored Court,
that they would please to take it into consideration, yt his vir-
ulent speeches might be restrayned for ye future, and such as

COURT RECORDS RELATING TO TOPSFIELD

139

have been so unjustly wronged by him, might receive satisfac-
tion, as your selves shall judge meet. Your servant

"March 31, 1681 William Hubbard”

A complaint having been put to this Court by Mr Wm Hub-
bard on behalf of himself and others agt Mr. Jeremiah Hubbert
of Topsfield for reproachfull & scandalous words pernitiously
vented & published in many places & yt publiquely agt ye late
Councill of Elders & Messengers at Topsfeild, and ye people of
Topsfeild, some or all of them : This Court doth order the Clerke
of this Court to send out forthwith a Summons to ye Marshall
of Ipswich to warne Mr Jeremiah Hubbert to appeare at ye next
Court at Salem to answer ye complaynt, unlesse that ye said
Jeremiah Hubbert shall above a fortnight before sd Court ap-
pear before ye Hond Major Genii. Denison & give such satis-
faction as he shall judge meet, the sd Mr William Hubberd, &
neighbouring ministers offended haveing convenient notice giv-
en them of ye time of his appearance before ye sd Majr Generali.
And the Clarke is ordered to make return of this act to sd Salem
Court & ye marshall of ye warrant also by wch he shall sum-
mon Mr Jeremiah Hubbert unless yt ye Maj. Genii, shall have
before ye time limited issued yt matter.” — Mar. 29, 1681.

Sergt. Jacob Perkins and Isaac Estye served on the grand jury
at Ipswich Court, Sept. 27, 1681.

John How served on the jury of trials at Ipswich Court, Sept.
27, 1681.

Ensign John Gould, in behalf of his wife Sarah Gould v.
Thomas Maull. Debt. Special verdict, if voluntary promise
of defendant for a supposed courtesy done be binding in law,
they found for plaintiff; otherwise for defendant. The question
of law resolved in the negative.

Writ, dated 22: 7: 1681, signed by John Redington, for the
Court and town of Topsfield, and served by John Williams,
deputy to Henry Skerrie, marshall of Salem, by attachment of a
bed, table, carpet and trunk of defendant’s.

Thomas Maule’s bill of cost, 14s.

( To be continued)

SARAH BARO COLCHER, AN AFRICAN PRINCESS,
WHO LIVED IN TOPSFIELD.

Buried in the family lot of Mr. Albert Austin Conant, in Pine
Grove Cemetery, lies the body of an African princess. It was a
strange mis-adventure that brought this girl from far away Af-
rica to Topsfield where she lived for a number of years in the
home of Major Nathaniel Conant, in the house now owned by
Philip Palmer at the corner of Main and Haverhill streets. It
happened that Mrs. Conant’s brother, Captain Austin Dodge, of
Beverly, Mass., was owner of the bark Magdala, and made voy-
ages to Africa. In 1844, while on one of these voyages, he was
travelling inland near Sierra Leone, and came across a tribal
war being fought there. In order to escape its cruelties many
of the women and children were fleeing toward the coast, when
some, from fatigue, dropped behind and became separated from
the others.

A slave dealer, Don de Mer, just then came driving his slaves
under the lash and, with a short raw-hide whip, forced some of
these laggards to come along with his slaves. He was a passen-
ger on Captain Dodge’s return trip and brought on board with
him three of the last acquired negroes. The sailors made cloth-
ing for them, as they were quite nude, but one of these, a child
about eight years of age had a certain string of beads about her
waist which was thought to mark her as an African princess.

Don de Mer died on the passage and two of the negroes were
sent to a southern port, while the princess, who gave her name
as Sarah Baro Colcher, was given to Captain Dodge who brought
her home to his sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Dodge Conant, in Topsfield,
who brought her up and gave her an excellent education. She
proved trustworthy and grateful and developed into a fine woman.
When she became of age she went into domestic service and
was for many years cook in the home of Mrs. Gordon Dexter of
Boston and Beverly Farms. While she was living there she was
taken ill and Mrs. Kilham of Beverly, the niece of Captain Kil-
ham, had her brought to her home and cared for until she re-
covered. It was for a time the care of Miss Henrietta Kilham,
now of Beverly and then a child, to read aloud to her every
afternoon, and she remembers being told that in spite of all the
intervening years she (Sarah) was never able to forget the lash.
She was a very black negress but fine looking. She wras born
in the interior of Africa, some distance from the west coast at
Sierra Leone, about 1836 and died in Boston at the home of a
colored friend in 1882. Her body now lies in the family lot in
Pine Grove Cemetery, Topsfield.

SARAH BARO COLCHER (1836-1882)

An African Princess brought to Topsfield where she
was educated.

VITAL STATISTICS OF TOPSFIELD, MASS.

1922.
Jan. 3.
Jan. 5.

Jan. 29.

Feb. 4.
Mar. 2.

Apr. 15.

Apr. 28.
May 3.

May 4.

May 12.
June 5.

July 17.

Aug. 13.

Aug. 21.

Sept. 7.

Sept. 27.

Oct. 23.

Oct. 7.
Nov. 16.
Dec. 23.

FOR THE YEAR 1922.

BIRTHS.

Richard Kennedy, son of Homer and Harriet Susan Kennedy.

Shirley Rita Stevens, dau. of Thomas R. and Thelma A. (Welch)
Stevens. Born in Salem Hospital.

Roy Melvin Feener, son of Frank Roy and Eva May (Ingraham)
Feener.

Alfred Puopolo, son of Angelo and Carmela (Caporal) Puopolo.

Veronica Anne Larkin, dau. of John Joseph and Anna Elizabeth (Kiv-
lan) Larkin.

Wilmot, son of George and Anna (Johnson) Wilmot. Born in

Salem Hospital.

Michael John DeCotis, son of Giovanni and Carmela (Leone) DeCotis.

Gloria Janice MacGregor, dau. of James Franklin and Annie Tresa
(McGoff) MacGregor.

Pasquale d’Amore D’Agostino, son of Pasquale and Giovannina
(D’Amore) D’Agostino,

Ernest A. Pace, son of Ernest L. and Corinne B. (Rich) Pace.

John Haggart, son of James and Mary (Boyle) Haggart. Born in Bev-
erly Hospital.

Kathleen Margret Murphy, dau. of John F. and Julia (Lyons) Murphy.
Born in Beverly Hospital.

Virginia Gertrude Rea, dau. of Julian Stuart and Mary (Porter) Rea.
Born in Salem Hospital.

Maurice Fredrick Roberts, son of Bertram M. and Annetta L. (Lind-
reth) Roberts.

Elizabeth Hope Stanwood, dau. of George Alfred and Bertha E. (Titus)
Stanwood. Born in Salem Hospital.

Donald Franklin Kneeland, son of Clarence Henry and Maude (Gup-
till) Kneeland. Born in Salem Hospital.

John Willard Dwinell, Jr., son of John Willard and Susan Marion
(Kelley) Dwinell. Born in Salem Hospital.

Charles Gangi, son of Salvatore and Providentia (Rizza) Gangi.

Iolanda Marciano, dau. of Carmino and Theresa (Copola) Marciano.

Francis Merrill, son of Severence Grant and Lillian Lorenthia (Cur-
tis) Merrill.

(141)

142

VITAL STATISTICS FOR 1922

1922.
Mar. 8.

June 26.

Aug. 16.

Oct. 18.

1922.
Jan. 13.
Jan. 19.

Feb. 15.
Mar. 1.

Mar. 9.
Mar. 25.
Mar. 31.

MARRIAGES.

William Cleon Barnett (Danvers), son of William Fremont and Mary
Elizabeth (Howard) Barnett.

Claudine Smerage (Topsfield) , dau. of Melvin White and Bessie Evelyn
(Welch) Smerage. (Married in Topsfield.)

Arlo Lester Roberts (Topsfield), son of Henry Hanson and Catherine
Jane (Chisholm) Roberts.

Delphine Lanctot (Haverhill) , dau. of Alfred and Thilomene (Paradis)
Lanctot. (Married in Haverhill.)

Otto D. Mowry (Chicago, 111.), son of Atwell and Mary E. (McFeeley)
Mowry.

Virginia L. Walker (Boston), dau. of Johnson L, and Mabel J. (Cham-
berlain) Walker. (Married in Topsfield.)

Arthur Linwood Gould (Topsfield), son of W. Pitman and Martha E.
(Nichols) Gould.

Florence Alice Baker (Beverly) , dau. of Angus William and Elmira
(Kaulbach) Baker. (Married in Beverly.)

DEATHS.

William A. Butcher, parents unknown. Aged 67 yrs., 5 mos. 1 dy.
Annie Jane Wildes, widow of Lewis H. Wildes and dau. of Amos and
Eliza (Perkins) Chapman. Aged 75 yrs., 8 mos., 21 dys. Died in
Arlington.

Job H. Frame, son of Samuel and Hannah (Whidden) Frame. Aged

78 yrs., 8 mos., 8 dys.

Ella Maria Pace, wife of Albert W. Pace and dau. of Thomas and Eliz-
abeth (Merrill) Perkins. Aged 67 yrs., 4 mos., 1 dy. Died in
Salem.

Serene Josephine Towne, dau. of Benjamin B. and Esther (Peabody)
Towne. Aged 85 yrs., 5 mos., 21 dys.

J. Fremont Perkins, son of Josiah P. and Pheobe (Towle) Perkins,
Aged 65 yrs., 2 mos., 3 dys. Died in Manchester, Mass.

Harriet W. Lefavour, dau. of Jesse and Rachel (Bliss) Whiting. Aged

79 yrs., 4 mos., 30 dys.

Wilmot, son of George and Anna (Johnson) Wilmot. Aged 1

day. Died in Salem.

Apr. 15.

VITAL STATISTICS FOR 1922

143

Apr. 18.
Apr. 18.
May 4.
May 7.
May 16.
May 21.
June 3.
June 5.
June 12.
July 14.

July 27.
Aug. 4.
Sept. 1.
Sept. 18.
Oct. 25.
Nov. 27.
Dec. 17.

Margaret T. Walsh, wife of William H. Walsh and dau. of William
and Ellen (Welch) Cullinane. Aged 52 yrs., 11 mos., 6 dys.

Silas E. Deland, son of Benjamin and Elizabeth Deland. Aged 67 yrs.,
9 mos., 2 dys.

Charlotte A. Gleason, wife of George L. Gleason and dau. of Daniel
and Charlotte (Towne) Perkins. Aged 81 yrs., 7 dys.

Margaret C. Deering, widow of William Deering and dau. of Edward
and Julia K. (MacBeth) Manning. Aged 85 yrs., 5 mos., 11 dys.

Ernest A. Pace, son of Ernest L. and Corinne B. (Rich) Pace. Aged
4 dys.

Alice M. Anderson, dau. of Hans and Mea S. (Hanson) Anderson.
Aged 12 yrs., 7 mos., 9 dys.

Edward Perley Balch, son of Humphrey and Hannah (Bradstreet)
Balch. Aged 72 yrs., 4 mos., 18 dys.

John Haggart, son of James and Mary M. (Boyle) Haggart. Stillborn*
Died in Beverly.

Mabel W. Bradstreet, wife of Horace D. Bradstreet and dau. of Daniel
and Lucy A. (Wilson) Warner. Aged 59 yrs., 4 mos., 9 dys.

Margaret Kimball Cummings, widow of Charles Amos Cummings and
dau. of Moses and Frances L. A. (Hathaway) Kimball. Aged 80 yrs.
8 mos., 25 dys.

James L. Ward, son of James and Mary L. (Chase) Ward. Aged 80
yrs., 5 mos., 22 dys.

George L. Gleason, son of Salman and Jerusha (Willard) Gleason.
Aged 87 yrs., 5 mos., 7 dys.

John Leonard Fiske, son of John and Adeliza (Pike) Fiske. Aged 50
yrs., 11 dys.

Lennie G. Lane, wife of Albert S. Lane and dau. of John F. and Louisa
A. (Whitaker) Perley. Aged 61 yrs. 1 mo., 1 dy.

Herbert W. Gould, son of Andrew and Mary P. (Lake) Gould. Aged
74 yrs., 3 mos., 21 dys.

Donald Franklin Kneeland, son of Clarence H. and Maud (Guptill)
Kneeland. Aged 2 mos.

George A. Frame, son of Samuel and Hannah (Whidden) Frame.
Aged 72 yrs., 2 mo., 26 dys.

DEATHS IN OTHER PLACES— INTERMENT IN TOPSFIELD

1921.

June 20. Caroline P. Beck, New York City, N. Y. Aged 54 yrs., 1 mo. Ashes
buried July 18, 1922.

Feb. 4. Luther A. Peabody, died in Ipswich, Mass. Aged 66 yrs., 17 dys.

Mar. 10. Henry Dexter Wotton, died in Winthrop, Mass. Aged 52 yrs., 7 mos.,
3 dys.

July 26. Susan Haskell, died in West Newbury, Mass.

Sept. 30. Minnie J. Bradford, died in Dracut, Mass. Aged 62 yrs., 20 dys.

Oct. 17. Sarah A. Ferguson, died in Danvers, Mass. Aged 86 yrs.

Nov. 6. Abbie M. Fuller Porter, died in Lawrence, Mass. Aged 25 yrs.

Nov. 14. William B. Tappan, died in Concord, N. H. Aged 79 yrs., 9 mos., 15 dys.
Nov. 23. Catharine Perkins, died in Salem, Mass. Aged 86 yrs., 9 mos., 16 dys.

144

CHRONOLOGY OF EVENTS IN 1922

CHRONOLOGY OF LOCAL EVENTS IN 1922.

1922
May 29.

July 13.

July 15.

Sept 21-23.

World War Memorial on the Common defaced and surrounding"
shrubbery destroyed. Reward of $100 offered.

Severe thunder storm; lightning struck in several places. Horace
Bradstreet barn set on fire.

Largely attended town meeting at which the question of building
a new school house at a cost of $65,000 was indefinitely post-
poned.

Boston and Newburyport Turnpike (Boston Street) opened to
travel after extensive regrading and rebuilding by the State
Highway Commission. The Stone bridge over the river en-
cased in cement.

Annual Cattle Show and Fair visited by over 25,000 persons.

BUILDINGS CONSTRUCTED DURING THE YEAR 1922.

Essex Agricultural Society, Turnpike, barn for draft horses, stable for race horses,
dance hall, grandstand.

Town Hall, Common, newly slated and painted, steel ceiling in hall.

Horse sheds in rear of Congregational Church removed.

Frank Bell, off East St., abandoned house destroyed by fire.

Frank Roberts, Grove St., house remodelled, roof changed.

Williams-Hodges house, Main St, remodelled.

Leroy and Chester Andrews, Central St., addition to barn.

Elmer P. Averill, Park Street, cottage.

John S. Lawrence, Ipswich St., addition to residence.

Ovide Bouchard, Central St., garage and carpenter’s shop.

J. J. Crotty, off Washington St., garage.

Fred Burnham, off Washington St., bungalow.

Thomas E. Proctor, cor. Ipswich St. and Turnpike, barn burned.

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